The Revival of the Volunteer Club

PVCC’s Volunteer Club had been relatively inactive until the fall semester of last year, when Micah Bigler Joined. Though new to PVCC and the club, he was made president upon joining on Aug. 24 and has been working diligently to fill the club’s agenda since. 

Joining Bigler in club leadership are Kritagya Gurung as vice president, Dorothy Shirley as the secretary, and Landon Boerman as the treasurer. The club meets every Monday from 12:45-2 p.m. in the main building at PVCC in room M252. Their first events were The Buzz by Belmont Elementary School Race and helping with Ivy Elementary School’s Fall Fest, where Shirley said she was in charge of balloon animals. 

Since then, they have volunteered at PVCC’s Winter Bazaar and collaborated with the Student Government Association (SGA) on the Cocoa and Cuddles event. Bigler was specifically in charge of looking after the puppies and making sure everyone had a chance to pet them. 

The club’s immediate success has been due to its competent leadership. “If you ever want to start a club, hit her up,” said Bigler, pointing out Shirley’s organized bookkeeping on both past and upcoming events for the club. Boerman, as treasurer, is in charge of inventory and budget. “Best guy ever,” said Bigler. Gurung, as vice president, has been with Bigler the longest and is a tremendous help with club affairs, said Bigler.

The biggest upcoming event on the club’s agenda is their bake sale in collaboration with the SGA, which they have been planning for some time. The earnings from this event will be given to UVA Health. Though they have not set a date yet, they are hoping for 100 or more attendees. 

The club has met with Habitat for Humanity to explore potential volunteer opportunities. They will also be working with the Horticulture and Environmental Club to grow food in the PVCC garden, with all produce given to the PVCC food pantry. The club’s reach stretches even farther as they plan to work with the local fire department, where they will receive fire safety education and learn to install fire alarms. 

Their list of upcoming events also includes helping out at the upcoming 10-mile race, with Charlottesville Ballet as the beneficiary. As well as helping out at the thrift store next to IX art park in downtown Charlottesville, which Shirley explained will include a multitude of tasks. 

Since the beginning of last semester, the club’s membership has grown rapidly, due to its participation in club fairs and hosting multiple interest meetings. This club provides students with the opportunity to get involved in the PVCC and Charlottesville communities. To support the club, stop by their Monday meetings, which are always open to those interested in getting involved. To find out about upcoming events and possible volunteer opportunities throughout Charlottesville, sign up for their newsletter by contacting Bigler at mb32377@email.vccs.edu and stop by their bake sale to support UVA Health and the Volunteer Club.