FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Media Contact:  Mary Chance, Director at 410-638-3389

       
Harford’s Second Annual Volunteer Expo set for March 27, Vendors Needed  

Jan. 11, 2010 -- The Department of Community Services is proud to present the Second Annual Volunteer Expo, designed to inform the community about volunteer opportunities available throughout Harford County.

The Department of Community Services receives many calls from our partners expressing a need for volunteers; the Volunteer Expo presents an ample opportunity to speak directly to potential volunteers and even assign volunteers to available jobs on the spot.  The event will be held on Saturday, March 27, 2010 from 9:00am-12:00pm (vendor set up is at 8:00am) at the Patterson Mill Middle-High School, 85 Patterson Mill Road in Bel Air.  The fair will be open to the public with free admission.
 
Those wishing to participate as vendors will receive a table (with two chairs) to display information; the organization will also receive recognition on the department’s Web site and in advertising.  Please take this  opportunity to promote short- or long-term volunteer opportunities available at your organization for groups or individuals. 

Last year the department received feedback from the community that they would like to see more senior- and youth-related volunteer opportunities. Please come prepared with volunteer jobs such as help with ongoing projects, staffing annual events, etc, especially those relating to seniors and youth, if available.  

There is space for 16 vendors to have electricity; space will be provided on a first-
served basis so if your organization requires electricity, we advise you register soon.  There will be 60 vendor spaces available in the gym and this year there will be table space along the hallway; again, the gym is available on a first-come, first-served basis therefore it is recommended to register as soon as possible.  

Last year 65 vendors and nearly 450 people attended the Expo; and a significant turnout is expected again this year, as the Volunteer Expo provides a perfect opportunity to spread the word about your organization and to interest potential volunteers.  

The cost to participate as a vendor is $20.  Space is limited; registration is due 
by February 12, 2010.  The Vendor Registration form is available on our web site at 
www.harfordcountymd.gov/services.