Keller launches ‘One ABQ Volunteers’ program
Calling all volunteers. Mayor Tim Keller last week launched “One ABQ Volunteers,” a comprehensive initiative designed to encourage Albuquerque residents to address the challenges the city faces.
Coming off the heels of this summer’s successful One ABQ Challenge, One ABQ Volunteers will connect those interested in getting involved with the city to an opportunity that aligns with their skill set and their interests.
“We want to turn government inside out so every person has a role to play in moving our city forward,” Keller said in a statement. “There’s something for everyone — if you’re interested in public safety we have crime data entry; if you care about animals you can foster a pet — we want everyone to be able to find something they’re passionate about and come to the city to help.”
The first effort to get the city involved was Keller and first lady Elizabeth Kistin Keller’s One ABQ Challenge, which resulted in 109 organizations, businesses and individuals working together to host 74 service projects across the city.
The challenge engaged more than 1,000 volunteers who contributed more than 5,000 hours of service.
In preparation for launching this effort, city departments conducted an assessment of their needs, so that the city could get residents involved in their own government and engaged in finding solutions.
A wide range of volunteer opportunities are available, including working in community centers, serving as ambassadors at the airport, assisting with beautification projects through the Parks and Recreation Department, providing administrative support to the Albuquerque Police Department and volunteering at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial.
For more information, visit www.cabq.gov/abq-volunteers/abq-volunteers.
CALLING ALL SWIMMERS: Families can register for spring swim lessons online or at one of the city’s five indoor pools.
Spring swim lessons are offered at West Mesa Aquatic Center, 6705 Fortuna NW; Sandia Pool, 7801 Candelaria NE; Highland Pool, 400 Jackson SE; Los Altos Pool, 10100 Lomas NE; and Valley Pool, 1505 Candelaria NW.
To register for spring swim lessons, go to play.cabq.gov, sign up for a household (or sign in if you have an account), find the lesson that you are interested in, click on “Add to Cart,” proceed to checkout and bring the receipt to the first day of lessons.
Families can also register in person by visiting one of the indoor pool locations. The cost for each session is $35.
Online registration has begun for all pools except Los Altos, where registration will begin Feb. 1.
For more information, visit www.cabq.gov/parksandrecreation/programs-lessons/recreation/swimming-lessons.