Library needs volunteers, financial groups need skilled helpers [United Way column]

As the crisp air of fall rolls in and the spirit of giving begins to fill the streets of Lancaster County, the call for community volunteers grows stronger than ever. Opportunities to make a real difference abound — from helping neighbors navigate tax season to bringing order to the shelves of one of the busiest libraries in the county. Whether you’re a numbers whiz, a book lover, or someone simply looking to lend a helping hand, there’s a place for you to shine.

VITA: Helping hands for tax season

The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program is officially recruiting. Each year, dedicated volunteers step up to help individuals and families prepare their taxes accurately and free of charge.

Roles include greeters, schedulers and tax preparers — each vital in making the experience smooth and stress-free for community members.

Flexible schedules and comprehensive training are provided, making this a wonderful opportunity for those with backgrounds in customer service, accounting or finance, as well as anyone with a heart for helping others.

“Volunteers don’t just file taxes — they open doors to financial empowerment,” says Ed Bowman, VITA project manager. “Every return completed represents hope, relief and opportunity for someone in our community.”

To learn more or sign up, reach out to Ed Bowman at ebowman@uwlanc.org.

Fact: Last year, VITA volunteers in Lancaster County helped process over 8,000 tax returns, bringing more than $12 million in refunds and credits back to local families.

READ: Make autumn a season of giving by volunteering [United Way column]

Gracie’s House: A heart for healing and stewardship

At Gracie’s House — a Lititz nonprofit that creates safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth — compassion meets accountability.

The organization is currently seeking a board member/treasurer to join its mission of providing support and resources to individuals on their path to recovery and empowerment.

Ideal candidates will bring experience in bookkeeping and accounting — skills that help ensure transparency and growth in service. By joining the board, you’re not just balancing ledgers; you’re helping sustain an organization that transforms lives.

If you have a passion for fiscal stewardship and community wellness, reach out to Amy Sarig King at info@gracieshouse.com, or visit gracieshouse.com for more information.

Fact: According to the National Council of Nonprofits, financial literacy and oversight are among the top five skills most sought after in nonprofit board members nationwide.

Manheim Township Public Library: Shelving stories and smiles

If you love the quiet magic of libraries and the promise of a well-ordered bookshelf, the Manheim Township Public Library is calling your name. As the busiest public library in Lancaster County — with over 620,000 items circulated in 2024 — this local treasure relies on volunteers to keep its shelves organized and inviting.

Shelving volunteers ensure that children’s books, picture books and graphic novels find their way home to the right spot. It’s an independent, hands-on role perfect for detail-oriented individuals. Flexible shifts are available, with Mondays and Saturdays being the highest-need days.

Volunteers must be at least 14 years old, complete required clearances under Pennsylvania law, and bring a willingness to contribute to a vibrant, learning-filled environment.

To apply, go here.

READ: Lititz Public Library seeks funding from Elizabeth Township for library expansion

Holiday cheer: Calling all nonprofits

The season of giving doesn’t end with Thanksgiving dinner or the twinkle of holiday lights. United Way of Lancaster County is inviting local nonprofits to share their holiday community service projects for this year’s Online Holiday Guide.

Projects running from November through January — such as Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas outreach, toy drives, or warm clothing collections — can be featured on the online volunteer platform.

Nonprofits interested in participating can contact me at United Way of Lancaster County, at jjohns@uwlanc.org.

A community that cares

Lancaster County’s strength has always come from its people — neighbors helping neighbors, strangers becoming friends, and small acts of service creating ripples of hope. Volunteering isn’t just about giving time; it’s about giving meaning.

As Helen Keller once said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

To explore these and other volunteer opportunities, visit the United Way of Lancaster County’s volunteer platform at uwlanc.galaxydigital.com.

This season, step forward, get involved and be part of the story that makes Lancaster shine a little brighter.

Jarissa Johns is volunteer manager for the United Way of Lancaster of Lancaster County.