Five Local Groups That Need Your Help ... Now

There are plenty of local groups that could use a hand from Patch readers. Here are five things you can do right now to help worthy causes in our area.

1. Vote for SNAP: Zachary Certner of Morris Township was named one of our . His non-profit, is up for a big award through Energizer Batteries. To help Zachary move from semi-finalist to finalist, vote for him here.
2. Help the kids go camping: Sixth-graders at the Borough School in Morris Plain are raising money for a camping trip. They're holding an event called "BINGO at Borough" for kids in grades K-5 on Thursday, March 24th, from 3:15–4:30 p.m. at the Borough School cafeteria. Three BINGO cards are available for $5, and there will be snacks and prizes available. Visit www.mphsa.org for more details.
3. Donate an item for auction: The Seeing Eye is seeking item donations for its 2011 online auction. Whether one item or many, all donations are welcome. Item donations will be accepted through April 15. The auction will run from April 29 through May 12. 
4. Help pre-teen girls live healthy: Volunteer coaches are needed for the third season of Girls on the Run in Morris Plains. This nation-wide program combines running and other activities to help pre-teen girls to develop healthy lifestyles. Volunteer coaches do not need to be runners. They must attend one day of training in March, then work with girls one day per week after school from 3-4:30 p.m. from the first week of April through June 11. Email atonero@drew.edu for more information.
5. Help rescue squads: The 3rd Annual Morris Area Freewheelers Revolutionary Ramble Bicycle Tour, which benefits local rescue squads, will be held on June 11. The group needs volunteers with jobs ranging from route testers to goodie bag stuffers.