BEDFORD-STUYVESANT — A new volunteer network in Bed-Stuy is turning locals into community activists.
Bridge Street Development Corporation's Volunteer Generation Initiative is a new program that allows users to sign up, identify an area of interest and learn how to volunteer in their community.
The network is similar to citywide organizations like New York Cares — but with a local spin, Bridge Street Executive Director Emilio Dorcely said.
"What we're trying to do is really localize the process," he said. "It's really an opportunity for community residents who are interested in doing something in the community, and need a vehicle to do that."
After signing up, users can navigate through a calendar of upcoming events and learn more about each opportunity before choosing one that's right for them. Event categories include civic engagement, homeownership and senior services.
The program is for people of all skill levels, Dorcely said.
"It's a way for people to focus their efforts on things that they care about.," Dorcely said. "This helps them identify something they can do."
