Volunteer Through "Chicago Cares"

A reader suggests that Uptowners who might have a couple hours to spare each month check out the "Chicago Cares" program, which lists volunteer opportunities all over the city, including Uptown. Everything from Seniors Bingo, to Pet Visits, to Soup Kitchens, to Organic Gardening! Check out the calendar here. You can use the drop-down menu to search for the kind of volunteer opportunities appeal to you the most, but - frustratingly - there's no search via geographic area. The website says: "Chicago Cares volunteer programs help meet the most pressing needs in education (adult and children), hunger, health and wellness, senior services, and environment and rehabilitation."