The document summarizes the mission, vision, and goals of the Portneuf Action Volunteer Network, which aims to connect volunteers in Pocatello, Idaho with local organizations in need through an online calendar and directory. It outlines the organization's philosophy of making volunteering easier to coordinate to get more community involvement. It also lists potential partner organizations and their volunteer needs, as well as the website's planned features and opportunities to showcase volunteers and organizations.

1. Portneuf Action Volunteer Network Anthropology of Global Health • Fall 2007 Chris Peirsol Katrina Harwood Karen Robertson Angela Gilbert Kacee Garner

2. Our Mission To unite concerned Pocatello, Idaho, citizens with organizations in the area in need of volunteers through an internet-based calendar and organization listing.

3. Our Philosophy We believe that by making volunteering easier to coordinate, the community will more actively participate in service. Through service, the community will work together to help the poor and afflicted, thereby creating a better city. Through the small efforts of many, we wish to create a light to the world of unity and service.

4. Our Vision As we unite volunteers with organizations, we will look forward to expanding our efforts from Pocatello to southeast Idaho. Our internet site will grow and become more user-friendly and helpful for families, large and small groups, professionals, and lay people.

5. Organization • Small board of directors to review policies and provide oversight. External accountant to oversee accounts and tax code requirements Volunteer/part time paid staff person(s) to: • Update website as needed • Generate publicity (media, newsletter etc.) • Recruit and retain partner organizations

6. Local Problems Staffing Needs Fundraising Needs Lack of Resources

7. Government Funding • Example: Source: Executive Office of the President, Office of Management and Budget, 2006

8. Potential Partner Organizations & Needs Family Services Alliance Crisis Line Advocate Reading to Children Child Care Aide The Idaho Foodbank Food Repacking Assistant Load and Unload Trucks Write Newsletter Articles Southeast Idaho Community Action Agency (SEICCA) Deliver Meals on Wheels Mutual Self Help Housing RSVP – Mentoring Children of Prisoners The Salvation Army Cook and Serve Meals Assemble Food Boxes Clerical Duties

9. Potential Partner Organizations & Needs Bannock Youth Foundation Teen Suicide Hotline Help Children with Homework Food Drives Southeast Idaho Council of Governments /Area Agency on Aging CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) United Way of Southeast Idaho Aid For Friends Home Hygiene Drives Maintenance and Repair Projects Shelter Supervision

10. Potential Partner Organizations & Needs • Pocatello Neighborhood Housing Services First Book Big Brothers/Big Sisters Special Olympics Hispanic Health Project Red Cross Pocatello Free Clinic Medical Reserve Corps Local Schools

11. Website Opportunities for: • Individuals • Groups • Professionals • Donations Success Stories: • Volunteer of the Month • Organization of the Month • Newsletter download

12. Website Calendar • Community Events • Partner Organization Events • Customizable & Printable Volunteer Calendar Community Bulletin • Post information and events • Share experiences, tips and photos

13. Needs Assessment Focus Groups Surveys Partner organization recruitment and training Legal issues / liability waivers Website creation bid Public information campaign plan

14. Strengths • Online—widely accessible, inexpensive, utilizing new technology • Assisting existing organizations meeting their goals, not duplicating services • Minimal overhead or need for large paid staff • Pocatello seems like the right size to attempt this sort of project—large pool of volunteers with a well-developed sense of community

15. Opportunities • Help local organizations better serve people in need • Help people become more comfortable volunteering • Increase volunteerism • Create a better sense of community • Increase Pocatello’s aptitude for giving • Working with well-established volunteer groups including religious community • Opportunity for idea to spread to other cities

16. www. portneuf-action.org