W-E Library to hold first Lake Teen Volunteer Fair

The Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library will hold the first Lake County Teen Volunteer Fair.

The event, which is planned to become an annual event, will be held 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 9 at the Willowick Public Library, 263 E 305th St.

“We decided to hold this special event specifically for teens because we are contacted frequently by students who are looking for service hours,” said Lori Caszatt, communication and development manager for the W-E Public Library said.

With many area schools requiring students to have a set number of service hours as a prerequisite to graduation, Caszatt feels this event will help students find a way to meet the mandate.

“This event is a great way for students to meet with many Lake County organizations in one place and to match their interests and skills with an opportunity that is mutually beneficial to both the nonprofit and the student,” she said.

Agencies participating in the event include: United Way of Lake County, Lake County General Health District, W-E Library Boosters, Mooreland Historic Gardens at Lakeland, American Red Cross, Hospice of the Western Reserve, Lake County Board of DD/Deepwood, Big Brothers Big Sisters of NEO, WilloughbyEastlake Public Library, Lake-Geauga Habitat for Humanity and Ohio Living Home Health and Hospice.

There will be giveaways from the vendors and some library giveaways as well.

“In addition to earning service hours, volunteering can offer many personal and professional benefits for the future,” Caszatt said. “When volunteering within an organization, students will learn important communication and networking skills that will be needed as an adult. Volunteering also looks great on a college application and resume when applying for that first job. But most importantly, students will feel pride knowing they are helping people in Lake County who need it.”