By Jenny Boylan

Students in a pressing job market may find volunteer work to be not only a service to the community, but also a resume perk.

The Center for Community Outreach will hold its annual Volunteer Fair Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the Student Center patio or in the Grand Ballroom if it rains.

Fifty non-profit agencies will provide pamphlets and other information for students, faculty and staff on volunteer options and outreach programs they may be interested in pursuing.

Agencies such as the Humane Society, UK Hospital, art organizations, tutoring programs, senior centers and family counseling services for low income individuals are just a few of these non-profit organizations which will be available for students and staff to check out and get involved in.

“These agencies will be giving information on their purpose and the services they provide to the community so that students can get involved and fundraise,” said Colby Khoshreza, promotions director of the CCO.  Khoshreza said students will be able to sign up to volunteer during the fair with whatever agency they are interested in.

The agencies will be there to answer any questions students have and to show students the vast opportunities in community service available to them around Lexington.

Aleidra Allen, special events director for the CCO, has been working all summer to put the Volunteer Fair together and promoting the event through flyers and posters around campus. Allen is hopeful for a better turnout of students this year.

“This is a great event for students to attend,” Allen said. “We’re such a service-oriented community and it being in September, right at the beginning of school, gives students service opportunities right off the bat.”

Emilee Dover, a Humane Society volunteer, feels community outreach and volunteering is extremely important for students to get involved in.

“Not only is volunteering a great way to build your resume, but it also enriches you as a person and gives you leadership opportunities outside of just the university,” Dover said.