Annual KidsMatter Fair to Highlight Local Student Volunteer Opportunities

Students will be able to find out how to give back to their community by connecting with more than 28 nonprofits during the upcoming KidsMatter Youth Volunteer Fair. 

The 10th annual event takes place Tuesday, Oct. 2 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Naperville City Municipal Center and allows students grades 6th through 12th to learn more about volunteer opportunities with local nonprofits.

"It's a really nice, direct way for the students and the agencies participating to connect and see if they're are a good fit, see if their requirements are a good fit and to see if their interest levels are a good fit for each other," said KidsMatter social media coordinator Bridget Hatch.

Hatch said she expects to see around 800 attendees at this year's fair, which is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Naperville and the Naperville Jaycees. The fair also helps Naperville high school students fulfill community service hours, if they decide to volunteer with one of the organizations. 

Some of the local organizations participating this year include the American Cancer Society, Little Friends, the DuPage Children’s Museum, the Morton Arboretum, Loaves and Fishes, 360 Youth Services, the Naperville Public Library, the Naperville Park District, Feed My Starving Children, and the YMCA.

Representatives from each organization will be on hand to discuss opportunities available for both students and families. The fair is also designed to help agencies match students with their interests, major as well as career goals.   

The KidsMatter Volunteer Fair is free and open to all students from area middle and high schools. Local youth groups, faith communities, scout troops and other youth organizations are also encourage to attend. 

For more information, contact Bridget Hatch, KidsMatter New Media Coordinator, bridget@kidsmatter2us.org or 630-995-0275. Visit the KidsMatter website at www.kidsmatter2us.org.