programs & services around town Check out these groups on social media.
Le Cercle Charmant Le Cercle Charmant in French means “Charming Circle.” For more than 60 years, the women members have lived up to that name. A group of African American women meet monthly to join hands and hearts to reach out to the community. Their work is guided by the mission, “serving with charm and dignity.” The organization regularly awards scholarships to high school students in support of its scholarship program, which they have been during for over 50 years. For information, call Liz Montgomery at 220-0117.
Check out these groups on social media.
K-9 Connection K-9 Connection Therapy often visit Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center and other facilities. The animals enhance the emotional well-being of those they visit through unconditional love and can help cheer those who are hospitalized. Dogs and their owners receive special training and are certified in pet therapy. Visit www.k9connectionwmbg.org for more information.
Avalon
The Red Cross holds several area blood drives throughout the year. The Bloodmobile often parks at shopping or business locations for convenience. To find out how to give the gift of life, call the Colonial Virginia chapter of the Red Cross, 253-0228 or visit http://cvc.redcross.org or visit www.givelife.org.
Avalon: A Center for Women and Children, provides care to women and children looking to escape abusive environments. Avalon’s mission is commitment to intervention in and reducing the incidence of domestic violence and sexual assault. Call the Avalon 24-hour helpline at 258-5051. Avalon has downloadable brochures, safety plans and resources online. Visit www.avaloncenter.org. Avalon can use donations and volunteers. To help or donate, call 258-5022. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 800 799-7233.
NAMI
CDR
Red Cross
The National Alliance on Mental Illness-Williamsburg Area is a support, education and advocacy organization for and by individuals with serious mental illness. NAMI Williamsburg Area has a Support Group meeting for Family & Friends of those with mental illness at Saint Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 612 Jamestown Road in the fellowship hall on the second floor, every Tuesday 7- 8:30 p.m. Call 564-7824 for more information.
Relay for Life The annual event is held in May. It is a major fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, with proceeds benefiting cancer research. The event draws hundreds of cancer survivors and those whose lives have been touched by the disease in some way. It is a wonderful way to honor or remember those who have been faced with the disease. Visit www.relayforlife.org to find out more or to start or join a team.
Child Development Resources provides services to young children and families and training and technical assistance for the professionals who serve them. Each year the Bid n’ Buy Auction raises money for the worthwhile cause. The auction features hundreds of items up for bid, and people can walk away with great bargains, all for a wonderful cause. The auction is usually held in March. Last year it was held at Jamestown High School. Call Child Development Resources at 566-3300 or visit www.cdr.org for details.
Arc of Williamsburg The Arc of Greater Williamsburg provides support services to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through educational, life and job skills, health and wellness, and social and recreational opportunities. The Arc has served young adults to senior citizens in the community for more than three decades. Volunteers are always needed. Call 229-3535, e-mail info@ thearcw.org or visit www.thearcgw.org.
Early Childhood Music Tourism Alliance Early Childhood Music School of Williamsburg United Methodist Church, 500 Jamestown Rd., is available to children, ages 2 months through 7 years and also offers adult keyboard classes. Children’s natural musical instincts are nurtured through a balanced program of singing, chanting, focused listening, playing instruments and movement. Two five-day summer sessions are available in June and July. The next two-semester program begins in September. Call Cindy Freeman, director, at 229-1771, ext. 108 or visit www.williamsburgumc.org for times and fees. 48
The Greater Williamsburg Area Chamber & Tourism Alliance is a group of business people united to enhance, promote and serve the local business community. Chamber & Tourism Alliance networking groups provide members a direct opportunity for networking to share ideas, contacts and a continuing source for referrals for their businesses. Call 229-6511 or visit www.williamsburgcc.com. The chamber gallery also houses an art gallery, which changes regularly. It features the work of Alliance artist members. TREASURES 2015