Organizations seek student volunteers
by Brian Shults, reporter

    Opportunities for all TCC students to expand their education through hands-on learning outside of the classroom are now available through two volunteer programs.

    Applications are now being accepted for the Texas Master Naturalist, a program devoted to preserving and restoring local natural resources, and People with Arthritis Can Exercise (PACE), an exercise regime for senior adults.

    “The Texas Master Naturalist volunteer program is a unique opportunity for students to balance out their education with activities that will improve the quality of life in Tarrant County,” Gray McBride, spokesman for the program, said.

    Leading the volunteers in the program are local urban biologists, who will guide students through 40 hours of nature programs and 8 hours of advanced training in the field of ecology. Those who complete the program will receive a Master Naturalist certification, a forest and wildlife management certificate of achievement, McBride said.

    ”The training lasts two months and includes classroom and field trip instruction covering the wetland, prairie, forest and urban systems of North Central Texas. Field trips will be held in a wide variety of terrains and habitats. Schedules are also very flexible for busy students,” he said.

    The classes begin Sept. 4 and end Oct. 30. Regular attendance is stressed and a $75 enrollment fee is required. Interested applicants may call 817-355-4832 or download an application at www.members.mone.net/ryoas/tmn_ct/cross_timbers_home.html. Deadline for applications is Aug. 6, but submissions past the deadline will be considered if openings are still available.

    PACE needs students to lead senior citizens in strength and endurance exercises, body mechanics and relaxation techniques.

    “The exercise program includes games and range of motion exercises. Volunteers can observe and participate in improving the lives of many seniors. The Senior Citizen Services (SCS) offers PACE volunteers several facilities to choose from,” Joyce Hanstrom-Parlin, SCS coordinator, said.

    A one-and one-half day CPR training is required and paid for by SCS. Training begins in August, and the exercise classes begin in September and continue through May 2002.

    Potential volunteers should contact Hanstrom-Parlin at 817-338-4433.