MISSION FOCUS

UCAN

United Churches Assistance Network (UCAN) is an ecumenical partnership of sixteen local churches in Northern Baltimore County that have pooled resources in an effort to better respond to the needs of the community.  UCAN offers financial assistance and supportive guidance to those in crisis situations. UCAN is an all-volunteer organization.

This year UCAN is celebrating its 30th anniversary.  Over the last 30 years UCAN has provided assistance to over 18,000 individuals and families and provided direct monetary assistance of over $4,500,000.

These monies included food certificates, lodging, prevention of evictions, utility payments (gas, electric and heating fuel oil), transportation (including MTA tokens) and prescriptions.  This aid was in addition to assistance provided through networking with other community assistance networks within Baltimore County.

Community Volunteer Tool
 
The Baltimore County Department of Aging Volunteer Center has developed an online tool for volunteers.
 
The Baltimore County Volunteer Center Portal will serve as a central hub for volunteer recruitment in the Greater Baltimore
and Maryland community.
 
The free portal aims to make it easier for nonprofit organizations to connect directly with potential volunteers, eliminating the need for cold calling or emailing. People interested in volunteering would also find opportunities more easily by simply heading to the portal and searching the more than 80 organizations that have listed their needs there.
 
Organizations listing their needs on the portal include service-learning projects, court-appointed agencies, and local volunteer groups spotlighting their initiatives. They can also register their agency and post their volunteer needs directly on the portal for free. All organizations large or small are encouraged to avail themselves of this resource.
 
(By Aliza Worthton – Baltimore Fishbowl)