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Community Corner

5 Great Nonprofits to Support

Donating: It does a heart good.

Here's a roundup of area nonprofits, who are always looking for a few good volunteers. Each week we'll have a new list highlighting editor and reader picks of great local businesses, destinations, services, organizations, ways to spend a day off, and more. 

 This week: five great non-profits to support.

1.  Assistance League of Flintridge A service organiztion volunteers devoted to serving the needs of the community of La Cañada-Flintridge through philanthropic programs, inlcuding projects in which teens serve dinner to the homeless and provide tutoring to other teens.  League projects also include Cappy Bears, which gives stuffed animals to hospitals, Retired Service Volunteers, summer school, and a youth employment service.  Proceeds from the League's Bargain Box Thrift Shop go to support the good works.

Find out what's happening in La Cañada Flintridgewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

2.  Community Center of La Cañada-Flintridge  offers programs and classes in everything from tai chi to ceramics for kids, teens, adults and seniors.  The center also sponsors youth and outreach progams and is always looking for volunteers to help out with a variety of programs and activities.  The Community Center also runs a respected pre-school.  There's something for everyone and a lot of fun at the center.

3. Descanso Gardens  Everyone's been to Descanso Gardens, but did you know that in addition to relaxing garden strolls and horticulutre and lifestyle classes, the gardens also offer volunteer opportunities?  For adults, no prior training or experience is necessary to volunteer in gardening and public programs, help out in the gift shop or help move along the enchanted railroad.  You can also train to be a docent.  Opportunities are avaialble for teens as well, who can help take care of the roses, assist with events and work at the festivals.  The gardens cover more than 150 acres and support the community by offering an experience and stewardship with nature unique to Southern California.

Find out what's happening in La Cañada Flintridgewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

4. Lanterman House  The house is not only an example of La Cañada history, but also a community resource, sponsoring events and exhibits that educate, support and inspire La Cañada.  Currently, the house is gearing up for its Ragtime Tea Dance on March 6, at which friends can party like it's 1918 and support Lanterman's efforts to raise funds to preserve its historic sheet music collection.  The house offers tours and has an extensive archive available to the public.

5. Community Dream Studios produces media projects with a focus on bringing awareness to community issues and social proejcts.  Through these projects, the   studio is able to provide training and job assistance to those looking to get their start in the entertainment industry.  Mentorships, studio apprenticeships, workshops and acting and music programs also support members of the community with their talents development and goals.  Volunteers are always needed to help with all aspects of the studio's work.

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