Organization assists volunteers

A new organization has been formed to assist groups in Douglas County that depend on volunteers.

AVID - Active Volunteers in Douglas - was formed to address the issues of recruitment, retention, placement and recognition of volunteers.

Sgt. Tom Mezzetta of the Douglas County Sheriff's Office was elected chairman. Other officers are school superintendent John Soderman, secretary; and anthropologist and museum specialist Mary Ellen Conaway, treasurer.

The organization is working to raise funds for training and equipment for volunteers, insurance and the yearly appreciation barbecue.

"We're also looking for volunteers to help the many fine organizations serving Douglas County," Mezzetta said.

The organization will assist volunteer activities of the sheriff's office, school district, Douglas County Senior Services, Carson Valley Community Food Closet, Douglas County Historical Society, Family Support Council of Douglas County, Carson Valley Medical Center, Douglas County Parks & Recreation, Douglas County Library and the Minden-Tahoe Airport.

"The combined number of volunteers that shall fall under the auspice of AVID has yet to be compiled, but should easily number several hundred," Mezzetta said.

The next meeting of the group is June 26 at 9 a.m. at the Douglas County Law Enforcement and Judicial Center, 1625 Eighth St., Minden. The meeting is open to the public.

For information, contact Mezzetta at 782-9931.