Are you looking for a way to pay it forward? If so, check out Belleville AmeriCorps’ upcoming Volunteer Fair Wednesday, April 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Southwestern Illinois College Belleville Campus Quad, 2500 Carlyle Ave.

Students and community members are encouraged to attend the Volunteer Fair. Whether you’re a college student looking for a service learning project or an active senior citizen looking to share your gifts, you’ll find an organization in need of your assistance.

“Most local organizations depend on the services of volunteers to carry out the important work they do. You can be a part of their efforts to help others in the community,” notes Belleville AmeriCorps Field Coordinator Abdul Ursani. “We can gain a greater sense of belonging and awareness of civic responsibility when we help others.”

In addition to information tables and booths from local organizations, staff, students and community members can participate in a service project. The project involves compiling hygiene kits for area homeless shelters.

Local nonprofit organizations recruiting volunteers will be on hand to talk about available opportunities and the services they provide. In addition to Belleville AmeriCorps program, groups scheduled to participate include: Butterfly Dreams Pageants Inc.; Area Agency on Aging of Southwestern Illinois; American Red Cross; CASA of Southwestern Illinois; Christian HomeCare Services Inc.; Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois

The Epilepsy Foundation of Southern Illinois; Community Care Center; Memorial Hospital Auxiliary; Hoyleton Ministries; and St. Elizabeth’s Hospital.

People can sign up for volunteer projects with several area organizations at the fair.

The event is co-sponsored by Belleville AmeriCorps and College Activities.

For more information, including the most recent list of participating organizations, call 618-235-2700, ext. 5711.