The ABQ Accent | EP 46 - Spring Volunteer Fest 2026

 Spring Volunteer Fest Podcast Panel Carolyn Thompson, Community Engagement Coordinator, Animal Welfare Tamara Williams, Erna Ferguson Librarian Nikki Peone - Associate Director, Senior Affairs The theme of this panel, our second live recording of the podcast, was reflecting on how volunteers are critical to addressing issues across our city. Each of our guests manages several projects or programs and offered the most endearing and important volunteer stories. They also have important information about unique needs and how volunteers are critical to address these needs. Whether they discussed kitten feeding, youth literacy, or supporting older adult needs in and out of the home, the panelists highlighted that volunteers themselves find human connection and purpose in their service. Hundreds of volunteers engage with these departments and most become deeply connected to this work or special projects. There are so many outstanding FREE services these City departments provide to our community, and much of it wouldn’t be possible without the support of volunteers. Check out their opportunities and more at oneabqvolunteers.com. It’s a wonderful way to create memories and connections. Notes: High needs for Senior Affairs: drivers for field trips and appointments, help in the Senior Center kitchens, yard clean ups Over 36,000 folks are registered on our website with City departments and more than 540 ongoing opportunities with community partners The economic impact of volunteer hours July 2024-June 205 = $2.7 million! Volunteer with us https://www.oneabqvolunteers.com/ Senior Affairs: https://www.cabq.gov/seniors/senior-volunteer Animal Welfare: https://www.oneabqvolunteers.com/awd Read to the Dogs/Libraries: https://www.oneabqvolunteers.com/manager/agency/edit/?agency_id=107270