NORTH READING — The various “Friends of” groups in town — those nonprofit volunteer organizations that provide a financial lifeline to a wide range of town organizations and departments — are becoming more vital than ever during these tough economic times.
In an era when town departments struggle to maintain level services due to decreased revenues and ever-rising fixed costs, these Friends groups step up to fill in the gaps.
As with any volunteer organization, there is always a need for new blood and fresh ideas. Similarly, longtime members of such organizations have plenty of insights to share with the newcomers joining their ranks.
It is in the spirit of the exchange of ideas on how best to serve such organizations that North Reading’s Friends volunteer organizations have joined forces to host a Community Open House of Friends’ groups tonight, Thursday, May 29, at the Flint Memorial Library, 147 Park St.
All are welcome to drop by the Library Activity Room from 7-8:30 p.m. (enter from rear parking lot) to chat with members and learn more about these groups.
Three established Friends’ groups who successfully raise funds and host a wide range of community events throughout the year that benefit the town’s parks, library and senior center, respectively, are hosting the event. They are:
• The Friends of the Flint Memorial Library, Inc.
• The Friends of North Reading Parks & Recreation, Inc.
• The Friends of the North Reading Council on Aging, Inc.
They will be joined by the North Reading Veterans Department, which hopes to launch its own “Friends of North Reading Veterans” group soon.
So stop by the Open House tonight to say hello, learn about each organization and see how you can become involved in improving your hometown by sharing your talents with any of these dedicated groups.
Light refreshments will be provided. No registration is required for this drop-in event.