There are a number of charities, churches and nonprofit agencies in Cherokee County that need volunteers to help accomplish their mission. To include your agency in this list, email news@cherokee-scout.com.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cherokee County
828-361-0989; cherokee@bbbswnc.org; bbbswnc.org
This group selects and matches mentors with children facing adversity and provides ongoing activities, training and support to sustain those relationships.
Cherokee/Clay Senior Games & SilverArts
Coordinator: Terence Faries; P.O. Box 1062 Murphy, NC 28906; cherokeecountyseniorgames.org; cherokeeclaycosrgames@gmail.com
The Senior Games, which are held from mid-April through mid-May each year, need volunteers. Directing parking, timing races, checking in participants and measuring throws are some of many ways to help out. The final schedule and dates will be available early 2024.
Fire departments
828-837-0090; Fire Marshal Kevin Carter; kevin.carter@cherokeecountync.gov
The best qualification for being a firefighter is a willing heart and soul. Firefighters receive 36 hours of state-mandated training each year and can attain EMT or other certifications, fee waived, at community colleges. Those interested should contact their district’s fire chief or the Cherokee County Fire Marshal’s office.
Four Square Community Action Inc.
P.O. Box 2290 Andrews, NC 28901; 828-321-4475; foursquarecommunityactioninc.com; sue.ledford @foursq.org
The organization, which provides services and resources to encourage self-sufficiency for individuals and families, is looking for volunteers who can plan events and run them. It needs people with executive assistant experience to help with tasks like assembling PR packages. There is a need for help with construction, painting and landscaping.
Guardian ad Litem
Judicial District 30 – Satellite Office No. 2
40 Peachtree St. Murphy, NC 28906; coordinator: Tonya Steiert; 828-835-7788; VolunteerforGAL.org; GAL.District30@nccourts.org
A Guardian ad Litem represents the interests of children who have possibly been abused or neglected. After a background check and 40 hours of training, the guardian advocates for children and helps the court determine what is best for them. The application is on its website.
High Lonesome Therapeutic Equestrian Center
15712 Joe Brown Highway, Murphy, NC 28906; 828-835-3739; highlonesomestables.org; highlonesomestables@gmail.com
The equestrian center in Ogreeta needs volunteers who are comfortable around horses during its summer riding sessions to assist in lessons as side-walkers.