Helping others
Assistance
St. Lawrence County
Community Service Brigade:Organized by St. Lawrence County Youth Bureau. Young adults travel throughout St. Lawrence County doing miscellaneous projects such as lawn care, painting, trail and cemetery maintenance, garbage collection, and winter clean-up. Inquiries welcome from homeowners, the elderly, businesses, community centers, highway departments, municipal government, and faith organizations. To request assistance or to help with the brigade: Kyle Weaver, Community Service Brigade crew supervisor, 379-9464 or YouthCorps@co.st-lawrence.ny.us.
Throughout the area
Essay contest:To win refurbished 1991 Ford Econoline wheelchair accessible van donated to Northern Regional Center for Independent Living. Van equipped with new transmission and brakes, side lift, tie downs, two gas tanks, but no hand controls. Send 250-word essay on "How an Accessible Van Will Improve My Quality of Life," to Northern Regional Center for Independent Living, 210 Court St., Suite 107, Watertown, N.Y. 13601, fax to 785-8612 or e-mail Candy Lewis at candyl@nrcil.net. Recorded essays will be accepted. Deadline:Sunday, Dec. 21.Winner announced Wednesday, Dec. 24. Information: Sue Morrow, 785-8703 or 785-8704.
Blood drives
Canton
Blood drive:Sponsored by American Red Cross of Northern New York, 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Wednesday, Dec. 3,St. Lawrence University, and 12:30 to 5:30 p.m.Monday, Dec. 8,Unitarian Universalist Church.
Massena
Blood drive:Sponsored by American Red Cross of Northern New York, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.Saturday, Dec. 20,Massena Rescue Squad building.
Norwood
Blood drive:Sponsored by American Red Cross of Northern New York, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.Tuesday, Dec. 2,Norwood-Norfolk Central School, Norwood.
Ogdensburg
Blood drive:Sponsored by American Red Cross of Northern New York, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Tuesday, Dec. 23,Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center.
Star Lake
Blood drive:Sponsored by American Red Cross of Northern New York, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Thursday, Dec. 4,Clifton-Fine Central School, Star Lake.
Clothing
Canton
Third Floor Thrift Shop:Sponsored by seven churches in Canton, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.weekdays, Church & Community Program, 95 Main St. Accepting donations of items in good condition Mondays through Wednesdays including clean clothing and household goods, but not toys or stuffed animals. Information: 386-3534.
Gouverneur
St. James Outreach Center:Clothing, household goods and religious goods for sale, 159 E. Main St. Benefits St. James Church's outreach ministries to the poor and needy. Donations of clean, usable clothing or small household items accepted from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays.
Madrid
Madrid New Beginnings Clothing and Food Outreach thrift store:Open from 9 a.m. to noonSaturdays,outer State Street. Clean clothing for sale. Emergency food available.
Parishville
Free clothing, food:10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. the fourthSaturdayof the month, United Methodist Church. Luncheon, 11 a.m. Clothing at the church's Mustard Seed Thrift Shop. Donations accepted but not expected. Information: Dixie Elek, 265-4646.
Redwood
Mission Possible Thrift Store:10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Wednesdays and Thursdays,10 a.m. to 7 p.m.Fridays,10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Saturdays,Route 37, next to Crossroads. Good used clothing, toys. Information: Rev. Edgar Hunter, 482-9024.
Donations
Canton
Community Energy Services:A nonprofit organization that promotes energy efficiency and renewable energy throughout the North Country and sponsors the North Country Sustainable Energy Fair at SUNY Canton. To make a donation, send a tax-deductible check to CES Fund at Community Energy Services, 101 Main St., Canton, N.Y. 13617. A receipt will be mailed. Information: www.communityenergyservices.org.
Norwood
Blanket drive:Norwood-Norfolk High School student council is collecting new or gently used blankets to be donated to needy families in the school district. Drop off donations byMonday, Dec. 1,at the high school guidance office. Information: Kelly Hitchman, 353-4642.
Throughout the area
Wishbones for Pets:To benefit All Creatures Great and Small,through Sunday, Nov. 30.Professional pet sitters work with local businesses to collect pet supplies, food and money to benefit needy pets in their communities. Donations may be left at Blue Seal Feeds & Needs, 23175 Murrock Circle, A Barker's Dozen, 611 Coffeen St., and North Country Animal Health Center, 16760 Route 3, all in Watertown, and at North Country Veterinary Services, 4592 Route 11, Pulaski, or call Melissa L. Ordway, owner of Comfy Cozy Critters, Sandy Creek, 532-1287, to schedule a pickup. Make tax-deductible monetary donations to All Creatures Big and Small and send to 147 Caster Road, Sandy Creek, N.Y. 13145. Information: www.comfycozycritters.com.
Kidney cars program:To benefit the National Kidney Foundation of Central New York. Cars, buses, motorcycles, trucks or similar vehicles, running or not, whole and with a clear title accepted and possibly may qualify as a tax deduction. Information: 1 (877) 8-KIDNEY.
Food
Canton
Church & Community Program:Food distribution the second, third and fourthWednesdaysof the month during freewill meals at the United Methodist Church, 41 Church St. Emergency food available by appointment. Serves residents of Canton, Clare, Crary Mills, Degrasse, DeKalb, Hermon, Lisbon, Morley, Pierrepont, Pyrites, Russell and Rensselaer Falls. Information: 386-3534.
Carthage
Village Ecumenical Ministries food pantry:9 a.m. to 2 p.m.Mondays and Fridays,452 S. Washington St. Closed when Carthage Central School is closed or delayed. Donations of paper or plastic bags and clean egg cartons appreciated. Information: Joyce E. Miller, director, 493-1341.
Chaumont
Food pantry:By appointment three times a year, Naturally Yours Dried Flowers, 11933 Academy St. Information: the food pantry, 649-2424, or Hariette Hardy, 649-5588.
Clayton
Food pantry:1 to 3:30 p.m.Mondays and Wednesdays,and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.Thursdays,12 times a year, St. Mary's Catholic Church, 521 James St. Volunteers needed for evening hours. Information: Joe Orbona, 686-5164.
Depauville
Food pantry:9 a.m. to 3 p.m.weekdays,A New Life, 32498 Route 12. Information: Ernest Ross, 686-0227, or fax, 686-4058.
Edwards
Food pantry:2 to 4 p.m. the thirdMondayof the month, United Methodist Church parsonage, 189 Main St.
Evans Mills
Food pantry:3 to 5 p.m.Saturdays,St. Mary's Catholic Church, 8412 Main St. Always on call. Information: Helen Cooke, 629-4683.
Hopkinton
Food pantry:10 a.m. to noonFriday, Dec. 12,town hall. Bring own containers.
LaFargeville
Gwen's food pantry:9 a.m. to noonSaturdays,Orleans Outreach Building. Information: 658-4411 or 658-4796.
Lowville
Emergency food pantry:Sponsored by Lowville Council of Churches, 9 to 11:30 a.m.weekdays,United Methodist Church basement, 7618 N. State St. Information: church office, 376-2123.
North Lawrence
Tri-Town Community Services food pantry:9:30 to 11 a.m. secondFridayof the month, Abundant Life Fellowship Church. Information: 389-5663, 389-4485 or 389-4950.
Parishville
Free food, clothing, luncheon:Sponsored by Mustardseed Ministry, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. the fourthSaturdayof the month, United Methodist Church. Donations accepted but not expected. Information: Edwina Elek, 265-4646.
Philadelphia
Indian River Baptist Church food pantry:5:30 to 7 p.m.Wednesdaysand 9 a.m. to noonSaturdays,Indian River Baptist Church, 42 Main St. Information: Mark or Linda Deleel, 628-4249.
Potsdam
Food drive:For Parishville-Colton-Pierrepont food pantry, drop off donations 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Monday through Wednesday,and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.Thursday through Saturday,at Asian World Imports, Main Street. Donations to be picked up by food pantry first week in December. Information, directions: 261-4844.
Redwood
Food pantry:1:30 to 3 p.m. the second and fourthWednesdaysof the month, St. Paul's Fellowship Hall. Information: Janice Atkinson or Bobbie Jo McBath, 482-2914 or 482-4029.
Russell
Supplementary food boxes:Available 6 to 7 p.m. the secondWednesdayof the month, Grasse River Food Pantry, to residents of Russell, Hermon, Degrasse and Clare. Registration required. Information: Marsha Maynard, 562-3450.
Sackets Harbor
Food pantry:11 a.m. to 1 p.m.Mondays and Thursdays,St. Andrew's Catholic Church, 110 E. Main St. Information: 646-3341.
Theresa
Food pantry:9 a.m. to noonThursdaysand 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.Saturdays,High Falls Baptist Church, 110 Theresa-Antwerp Road.
Watertown
Food Sense program:Registration, 9 a.m. to noonweekdays before Tuesday, Dec. 9,Watertown Urban Mission, 247 Factory St., or Faith Fellowship Church, 131 Moore Ave. Distribution, 3 to 4:30 p.m.Thursday, Dec. 18,Watertown Urban Mission. Cost: $15.50 per unit. No age or income requirements. Information: Anita Ciulo, 782-8440, or Deborah Wiley, 782-4421.
Watertown Urban Mission food pantry:Shopping hours, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m.weekdays,247 Factory St. Information: Anita Ciulo, 782-8440.
Community Action Planning Council food pantry:9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays,518 Davidson St. Information: Tammy Kitto, 782-4900, or fax, 788-8251.
Food pantry:By appointment, 3 to 6 p.m.Tuesdays,Faith Fellowship, 131 Moore Ave. Information: Deborah Wiley, 782-4421, or fax, 786-0309.
Fundraisers
Adams
Benefit:For cancer patient Deana Gates Brinker, beginning at 1 p.m.Sunday, Dec. 7,American Legion. Food, music, raffles. Information: Alison Barringer, 232-4191 or 523-5302.
Alexandria Bay
Benefit:For cancer patient Wanda Winters, noon to 7 p.m.Sunday, Dec. 14,Bonnie Castle Recreation Center. Chicken and biscuits, $7.95; children 10 and younger, $4.95. 50-50 raffles, gift basket chances, poster board chances, silent auction, live entertainment, hay rides, public skate and bake sale, massages and energy workers. Information: 482-9688.
Chaumont
Raffle:For a detailed miniature lighted toy shop on display at Lyme Free Library. Proceeds benefit the library. Drawing,Saturday, Dec. 20.Tickets: $5.
Evans Mills
Benefit:For Madison Fleming, 7 p.m.Friday, Dec. 19,Evans Mills Primary School. "A Holiday Surprise," given by Rhonda's FooteWorks dance studio students. Information: 767-3978.
Potsdam
Holiday fund benefit:7 to 10 p.m.Wednesday, Dec. 3,McDuff's Tavern, 59 Market St. Live music by Tas Cru and David Wells, free gourmet appetizers and chocolates. Gift raffles. Admission: $3, patrons younger than 21 welcome. Proceeds to benefit Potsdam Holiday Fund which provides warm clothing, gifts and food to families in need during the holiday season. Donations may also be mailed to Potsdam Holiday Fund, P.O. Box 827, Potsdam, N.Y. 13676.
Watertown
Holiday charity music extravaganza:Hosted by Watertown Wizards and Whitetail Country country music band, 1 to 6 p.m.Sunday, Dec. 7,Alex T. Duffy Fairgrounds Exhibition Hall. Proceeds to benefit Watertown Urban Mission. Admission: Donations of coats, jackets or toys in good condition, or five canned goods.
Jefferson County
Dining Out cards:To benefit the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired of Jefferson County. Cost: $30. Cardholders receive special discount dinnersMonday, Dec. 1-Monday, Nov. 30, 2009,at 18 participating restaurants. Choose two dinner entrees, pay for one at regular price and receive a second at a discounted price or for free. Cards available at the Association's office, 321 Prospect St., Watertown, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays; Hannaford Supermarket and Kinney Drugs locations in Watertown, Adams, Carthage and Clayton. Information: Association office, 782-2451, or 782-6890.
Support
Adams
TOPS 675:Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 6 to 7 p.m.Thursdays,Rohde Center, 2 E. Church St. Weigh-in, 4:45 to 5:45 p.m. First visit is free. Information: Linda, 232-4191, Carol , 583-5330, 1 (800) 923-0360 or www.tops.org.
Alexandria Bay
TOPS 792:Weigh-ins, 3 to 3:30 p.m., followed by meetingWednesdays,Macsherry Library, 112 Walton St. Information: Linda, 482-9597.
Belleville
TOPS 1185:Weigh-in, 5:30 to 6:15 p.m., meeting, 6:15 to 7 p.m.Tuesdays,Belleville United Methodist Church. Information: 232-3663.
Black River
TOPS 746:Weigh-in, 5:30 to 6 p.m., meeting 6 to 7 p.m.Wednesdays,St. John's Episcopal Church, West Remington Street. Information: 788-3596 or 788-4158 or National TOPS, 1 (800) 932-8677 or www.tops.org.
Canton
Narcotics Anonymous:7:30 p.m.Mondays and Fridays,Newman Center, 33 Court St., and 7:30 p.m.Wednesdays,Grace Episcopal Church, 9 E. Main St. Information: Reachout, 265-2422.
Alzheimer's support group:Open to caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease, 6:30 p.m. the firstTuesdayof the month, United Helpers Canton Nursing Home. Information: Alzheimer's Association, 1 (800) 272-3900.
Mending Broken Hearts support group:For women and men who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth or the loss of a child, 6 to 7:30 p.m. the first and thirdTuesdaysof the month, Formal Lounge, Dean Eaton Hall, St. Lawrence University. Facilitator: grief counselor Daniel Hernandez. Information: Mr. Hernandez, 229-5391 or dhernandez@stlawu.edu.
Chronic pain support group:10:30 a.m. to noon the firstWednesdayof the month, 35 Riverside Drive. Information: Freda, 386-2854, or Marie, 386-8882.
Cape Vincent
Overeaters Anonymous:7 p.m.Mondays,Cape Vincent Community Library. Information: Joyce Mordan, 649-2750.
Carthage
PTSD support group:Sponsored by Mental Health Association and First Baptist Church, 6:30 p.m. every otherTuesday,at the church. Information: Katina LaSalle, 788-0970 or Rev. Robert Barone, 493-1997.
TOPS 674:9:30 to 10:30 a.m.Wednesdays,community room, Brady Acres, 600 S. Washington St. Weigh-ins, 9 to 9:30 a.m. Annual membership dues: $24. First visit free. Information: Jan Bouvia, 493-4016; or Yvonne Boliver, 376-6015 or 1 (800) 932-8677 or online at www.tops.org.
Mothers of Preschoolers:Contact First Baptist Church, 511 State St., for time, date and location of the next meeting, fbccnymops@aol.com or 493-1232.
Carthage, Watertown
Quit smoking classes and support group:Sponsored by Tobacco Cessation of Northern New York, 6:30 p.m.Tuesday, Dec. 2,Carthage Area Hospital Foundation Office, and 6:30 p.m.Thursday, Dec. 11,Samaritan Keep Home Conference Room C, Watertown. Information: 493-1000, ext. 2349, or readytoquit@twcny.rr.com.
Clayton
Alzheimer's support group:Open to caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease, 2 p.m. the firstMondayof the month, Riverview Apartments. Information: Alzheimer's Association, 1 (800) 272-3900.
"How Al-Anon Works":7:30 p.m.Wednesdays,First Baptist Church, John Street.
Celebrate Recovery support group:7 p.m.Fridays,Clayton Baptist Church. A beatitude-based recovery program. Information: Cheryl Gray, 686-3194.
Croghan
TOPS 833:Weigh-ins, 8:45 to 9:15 a.m.Wednesdays,followed by meeting, at Croghan Library, Main Street. New members welcome. Information: 376-2629.
Dexter
TOPS 922:Weigh-ins, 5:30 to 6 p.m., and meeting, 6 to 7 p.m.Tuesdays,Dexter Elementary School. Information: 788-7817.
Lowville
Alzheimer's support group:Open to caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease, 6 p.m. the firstTuesdayof the month, Lewis County Office for the Aging. Information: Alzheimer's Association, 1 (800) 272-3900.
Caregiver support group:6 p.m. the firstTuesdayof the month, Lewis County Office of the Aging. Information: Lisa Monks, 376-5313.
Respite for caregivers:A free program sponsored by the Lewis County Office for the Aging. Trained aides available to relieve persons caring for an elderly loved one at home and assist with personal care and light housekeeping. No income requirement. Information: Lisa Monks, 376-5313.
Lowville, Watertown
Look Good, Feel Better:An education and support program that helps women with cancer manage the appearance-related side effects of treatment. Meetings at Samaritan Medical Center, Watertown, and Hair Vogue, Lowville, by arrangement. Professional cosmetologists volunteer during individual or group sessions. Complimentary kits provided. Registration: American Cancer Society, 1 (800) 227-2345, or for Lowville meeting, Gwen Myers, 376-3551.
Malone
Man to Man prostate cancer support group:Group programs, individual volunteer support and non-medical information on treatment options and side effects, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. the firstTuesdayof the month, Alice Hyde Medical Center. Wives and partners welcome. Information: John Montville, 268-9314, or the American Cancer Society, 1 (800) 227-2345.
Coping With Cancer group:Meets bi-weekly at the Health Station. Sponsored by Reddy Cancer Treatment Center and the Health Station. Information: John Montville, 1 (518) 483-9190.
Massena
Emotions Anonymous support group: 11 a.m.Sundays,Community Education Center, Massena Memorial Hospital. Information: Scott, 769-6822, or hospital public relations, 769-4262.
Renal disease support group:7 p.m. the firstMondayof the month, Community Education Room, Massena Memorial Hospital. Information: hospital's dialysis center, 705-0101, or hospital's public relations office, 769-4262.
Quit tobacco workshops:Sponsored by North Country Tobacco Cessation, 4 p.m.Tuesdays, Dec. 2, 16 and 30,Massena Memorial Hospital's lower level conference room. Free nicotine replacements including patches, gum or lozenges. Preregistration encouraged. Information: MMH's Public Relations Office, 769-4262.
Breast-feeding support group:10 to 11:30 a.m. firstTuesdayof the month, Community Education Room, Massena Memorial Hospital. Information: 769-4349.
Celiac support group:4 p.m. the firstTuesdayof the month, main floor board room, Massena Memorial Hospital. Information: hospital's public relations office, 769-4305.
Narcotics Anonymous:5:30 p.m.Tuesdays,Akwesasne Community Center, and 7:30 p.m.Thursdays,St. Mary's Church. Information: Reachout, 265-2422.
Separated and divorced group:7 p.m. the first and thirdTuesdaysof the month, St. Mary's Church, Sycamore Street. Open to anyone who has experienced separation or divorce. Information: the rectory, 764-0239.
Al -Anon:7:30 p.m.Wednesdays,Community Education Room, Massena Public Library, downstairs Room A, 41 Glenn St. Information: 769-7681.
Alcoholics anonymous:7 p.m.Wednesdays,Massena Public Library, Room A, 41 Glenn St. Information: 769-7621.
Weight Watchers:5:30 p.m.Thursdaysand 8 a.m.Saturdays,Massena Memorial Hospital cafeteria. Information: Rosemary, 287-2433.
Overeaters anonymous support group:7 p.m.Thursdays,lower level conference room, Massena Memorial Hospital. Information: Debbie, 384-4833, or hospital's public relations office, 769-4262.
Narcotics Anonymous support group:7 p.m.Saturdays,Community Education Room, Massena Memorial Hospital. Information: hospital's public relations office, 769-4262.
Daughters Without Mothers:For women who have lost their mothers at any stage in life. Information: Bonnie, 764-1818.
Debtors Anonymous:For those who wish to refrain from getting further into debt and stop compulsive spending. Meetings vary. Information: 769-7788.
Ogdensburg
Alateen:3 p.m.Mondaysduring the school year, Room 206, Ogdensburg Free Academy. Information: OFA high school guidance office, 393-0900, ext. 224.
Narcotics Anonymous:7:30 p.m.Tuesdays and Saturdays,First Congregational Church, 300 New York Ave. Information: Reachout, 265-2422.
Sleep apnea support group:6 p.m. the firstWednesdayof the month, Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center HR conference room, annex building, King Street. Information: Chuck Stearns, 528-5123.
Potsdam
Fibromyalgia support group:5 p.m.Thursday, Dec. 11,second floor Clarkson Hall, Center for Health Sciences, 59 Main St. Information: the hospital's physical therapy department, 261-5460.
Narcotics Anonymous:7 p.m.Sundays,Rehabilitation Unit, Canton-Potsdam Hospital, Leroy Street. Information: the hospital, 265-3300.
Codependents Anonymous:7 p.m.Mondays,Room A, second-floor classroom, Canton-Potsdam Hospital. A fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. Information: 265-2422.
Intensive care groups:7:30 p.m.Tuesdays,lower level, Potsdam United Methodist Church. Discussion of broken and troubled relationships, parenting, grief, drug and alcohol recovery, depression and mental health problems. Information: Ed, 265-8252.
Narcotics Anonymous:8 p.m.Tuesdays,Rehabilitation Unit, Canton-Potsdam Hospital, Leroy Street. Information: the hospital, 265-3300.
Recovery group:Doors open, 6:30 p.m., informational meeting, 7 to 8 p.m.Tuesdays,First Baptist Church, 24 Leroy St. Uses eight recovery principles based on the Beatitudes, designed by Rick Warren, author of "The Purpose-Driven Life." Sponsored by First Baptist Church. Information: Joanna, 265-5464 or 379-9511.
Diabetic support group:11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. the firstWednesdayof the month, Conference Room A, second floor, Canton-Potsdam Hospital. Lunch provided. Information: hospital relations office, 261-5400.
Neurological disabilities support group:6 p.m. the firstWednesdayof the month, Clarkson Hall. Information: Canton-Potsdam Hospital relations office, 261-5400.
Managing cancer support group:6:30 to 8 p.m. the firstWednesdayof the month at the office of Dr. Priti Mandalaywala, 145 Market St. Information: Canton-Potsdam Hospital relations office, 261-5400.
TOPS 1079:Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 3 to 4 p.m.Thursdays,Church of the Nazarene, routes 56 and 72. Information: Bonnie, 265-5470, or Nancy, 261-3754.
Sackets Harbor
TOPS 794:Weigh-in, 6 p.m., meeting, 6:30 p.m.Tuesdays,St. Andrew's Parish Center. Information: 646-3609.
Bi-polar, depressive disorders support group:Second and fourthFridaysof the month, Hay Memorial Library, 105 S. Broad St. Sponsored by the Mental Health Association. Child care provided. Limited transportation available. Information, child-care requests: Katina LaSalle, outreach coordinator: 788-0970.
Watertown
Mental Health Association in Jefferson County:For mental health consumers, free lunch, noonweekdays,and bingo, 3 p.m.Fridays,Drop In Center, 724 State St. Information: Mental Health Association, 788-6733.
REACH and teen bi-polar and depressive disorders support groups:For persons suffering from mental illness and their friends and family, 7 p.m. first and thirdMondaysof the month, 724 State St. Sponsored by the Mental Health Association. Refreshments and childcare provided. Limited transportation available. Information, childcare requests: Katina LaSalle, Outreach Coordinator: 788-0970.
HIV-positive support group:Hosted by AIDS Community Resources, noon to 2 p.m. the secondMondayof the month. For anyone interested in discussing any issues related to HIV and AIDS. Lunch provided. Information, meeting location: Ralf Bernecker, AIDS Community Resources, 1 (800) 475-2430.
Problem gambling support group:Support and guidance for individuals and their family members whose lives have been affected by problem gambling, 6 p.m.Mondays,Suite 320, Marcy Building, 167 Polk St. Information: Northern New York Center for Problem Gambling, 788-7241.
Women's HIV support group:6 to 7 p.m.Mondays,Life Church of the Nazarene, Thompson Boulevard. Information: Jeanine Moore, 921-5656.
VIP support group:For visually impaired persons, 2 to 3:30 p.m. the firstTuesdayin March, May, July, September, November and December, Centennial Apartments, 1010 Washington St. Information: Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired of Jefferson County, 782-2451.
Nicotine Anonymous:7 p.m. every otherTuesday,Samaritan Keep Home Basement Conference Room A. Information: 786-3735.
Watertown Area Gay Youth:6 p.m.Tuesdays.Support and advocacy for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and questioning youth 13 to 19 years old. Provides a safe, confidential forum for peer discussion, referral services, education resources, positive role modeling by adult advisers and guest speakers, community volunteer opportunities and safe social activities. Information: www.wagy.org. Meeting location: 529-4096.
GRADS:Guys Responding and Demanding Safety, a program directed to men who have sex with other men, 6 to 9 p.m.Tuesdaysin Watertown. Meeting location, information: AIDS Community Resources, 475-2430, ext. 801, or Onslow139@aol.com.
Sexual assault support group:5 to 6 p.m.Tuesdays,Victims Assistance Center of Jefferson County, 120 Arcade St. Free. Information: 782-1823.
Mental health discussion groups:Hosted by Northern Regional Center for Independent Living, 10 a.m. to noon,Wednesdays,NRCIL, 210 Court St. Information, registration: Michelle Hobart, 785-8703, or 785-8704.
Peers Together:A mental health, self-help support group, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.Wednesdays,Suite 107,210 Court St. Organized by the Northern Regional Center for Independent Living. Discussion focuses on mental health issues. Exchange ideas, discuss coping, share experiences. Information, accommodations: NRCIL at 785-8703, 785-8704 TTY or 1 (800) 585-8703.
TOPS 1208:Weigh-ins, 5:30 p.m., and meeting, 6 to 7 p.m.Wednesdays,basement conference room B, Samaritan Keep Home. Information, membership details: Sherri, 783-5967.
Domestic Violence support group:5:30 to 6:30 p.m.Wednesdays,Victim's Assistance Center of Jefferson County, 120 Arcade St. Free child care provided. Information: 782-1823.
Gamblers Anonymous and Gam-Anon:6:30 to 8:30 p.m.Wednesdays,First United Methodist Church, 236 Mullin St. Information: 482-9445.
Narcotics Anonymous:7 to 8:30 p.m.Wednesdaysand Sundays,Urban Mission community room, 247 Factory St. Information: 472-5555.
Bipolar, depression parent support group:6:30 to 8:30 p.m. the firstWednesdayof the month, Northern Regional Center for Independent Living. Child care available. Information: 785-8703.
Parents with psychiatric illnesses support group:Hosted by Mental Health Association, first and thirdWednesdaysof the month, at MHA Clubhouse, 724 State St. Refreshments and child care provided. Limited transportation available. Information: Katina LaSalle, 788-0970.
Rose of Sharin':Twelve steps of healing of emotional brokenness, 10 a.m. to noonThursdays,Holy Covenant Church of God, 207 W. Lynde St. Free. Information: Kim Campnich, 778-3391 (cell).
Domestic violence support group:1 to 2 p.m.Thursdays,Victims Assistance Center of Jefferson County, 120 Arcade St. Information: 782-1823.
Breast-feeding mothers group:10 a.m. to noonFridays,The Maternity Place, Samaritan Medical Center. Information: 785-4050.
Recovery group:A 12-step program for those addicted or those abused, alone or afraid, 6 p.m.Fridays,214 W. Lynde St.. Information: 376-8162.
Jeff-Lewis Multiple Sclerosis support group:6:30 to 8 p.m. the fourthFridayof the month, activities room, Samaritan Keep Home. Open to newly diagnosed people and their families. Information: Julie, 788-2303; Mike, 782-4371, or Pat, 639-6676.
ADHD seminars:Offered by Jefferson-Lewis BOCES, for parents with children who have attention-deficit/hyperacitivity disorder. Learn about the disorder and its accepted treatments. Call for appointment, 779-7220.
Survivors of homicide victims support group:Meetings vary in Watertown. Information: Debra J. Moseley, 782-6043.
West Carthage
VIP support group:For visually impaired persons, 1:30 to 3 p.m. the firstWednesdayof the month, except January, February and July, West Side Terrace, Madison Street. Information: Association for the Blind & Visually Impaired of Jefferson County, 782-2451.
Jefferson County
Alcoholics Anonymous, Jefferson County Intergroup:Literature, help, information, and AA meeting directories. Groups meet throughout the week at various locations in the north country. Information: Alcoholics Anonymous, Room 20, 44 Public Square, Watertown; 788-2280; www.aajci.org.
MOMS Program:Assistance paying for prenatal care. Information: Jefferson County Public Health Service, 786-3720.
New members, networks:The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgendered Alliance of Jefferson County is looking for persons or social agencies interested in creating a network to provide support, advocacy, education and social support for this population. Information: 523-5934, Jefferson County LGBT Alliance/SAGE, P.O. Box 273, Clayton, N.Y. 13624, or Robin Corson, 686-9842
Jefferson and Lewis counties
Al-Anon:For people whose lives have been affected by a loved one's drinking. Weekly meetings at 7:30 p.m.Tuesdays,Reformed Church of the Thousand Isles, Alexandria Bay; 7:30 p.m.Tuesdays,second floor lounge, First Presbyterian Church, Watertown; 7:30 p.m.Wednesdays,St. James Catholic Church, Carthage; 7 to 8 p.m.Sundays,Stone Presbyterian Church, 140 Chestnut St., Watertown. Information: Alcoholics Anonymous, 788-2280.
St. Lawrence County
Alcoholics Anonymous:For Districts 42 and 46, St. Lawrence and Northern Franklin counties. Hotline: 268-0120. Meeting times, places, information: Web site, http://www.home.earthlink.net/~d42aa/
Northern New York Families:Support and social group for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender parents and their children. Meets on a quarterly basis in St. Lawrence County. A chapter of Family Pride Coalition. Provides children of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender families an opportunity to meet families similar to theirs. Information or mailing list inclusion: Reachout of St. Lawrence County, 265-2422.
Hope Line of St. Lawrence County:For people who may need encouragement, reassurance, information or a caring, listening ear for support, available 6 to 10 p.m. daily by calling 1 (888) 853-9995.
Al-Anon District 26:Family groups meet throughout the week at various locations in the north country. Information: Reachout, 265-2422. Web site: http://www.home.earthlink.net/~d42aa/.
Mondays:8 p.m., St. John's Episcopal Church, 500 Caroline St., Ogdensburg (use Knox Street entrance). 8 p.m., St. Mary's Parish Hall, County Route 7 (Gale Road), Brushton (across from Brushton-Moira Central School).
Tuesdays:Noon, St. John's Episcopal Church, 139 Main St., Massena (use back entrance). 8 p.m., St. Mary's School, Route 37, Fort Covington. 8 p.m., Room 7, Unitarian Universalist Church, East Main Street, Canton (use back entrance).
Wednesdays:7:30 p.m., Rose Hill, 100 County Route 43 (Town Line Road), Massena. 7:30 p.m., Community Education Room, Massena Memorial Hospital, 769-4262. 8 to 9 p.m., 18 Cottage St., sponsored by Canton-Potsdam Hospital, Potsdam, 265-3300.
Thursdays:7 p.m., Dunn Hall, Pierrepont Avenue, Potsdam State University College.
Fridays:8 p.m., Sunrise Apartments (behind Tribal Police station), Route 37, Hogansburg. 8 p.m., Municipal Building, Lincoln Avenue, Waddington.
Volunteers
Black River
Northern New York Autism Foundation:Volunteers needed to work with other volunteers. Fundraising, brainstorming, parent support, writing and other duties as assigned. Information: Sherri or Kathy, 773-5405, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays.
Lowville
Decorators wanted:Sixth annual holiday festival,Thursday, Dec. 4-Saturday, Dec. 6.Sponsors and volunteers also wanted. Information: Jerry Perrin, 942-4891, or the society office, 376-8957.
Lewis County Opportunities:Volunteers needed for its 24-hour crisis hotline to assist the domestic violence and rape crisis department with crisis intervention and referrals to victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. Must complete 60 hours of training. Information: 376-8202, ext. 253.
Lewis County Residential Health Care Facility:Seeking volunteers to transport residents and assist with activity programs. To volunteer: Irene Williams, 376-5452.
Watertown
Meals on Wheels:Volunteer drivers and runners needed to deliver prepared meals to the homebound. Meals deliverd daily between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. To volunteer: 782-5555.
ESOL tutor training:Offered by Literacy of Northern New York, for those who wish to become volunteer English for speakers of other languages tutors. Free. Materials provided. Information, registration: Literacy of NNY, 782-4270.
CAPC food pantry:Volunteers needed to staff the Community Action Planning Council food pantry. Hours: 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Information: Tammy, 782-4900, ext. 271.
Caregiver support group:Volunteers needed to facilitate group in rural areas outside Watertown. Meetings are 2 to 3:30 p.m. last Wednesday of the month, Samaritan Keep Home education room. Information: Michelle, Office of the Aging, 785-3191.
Sci-Tech Center:A nonprofit, family-oriented science museum. Volunteers needed for workshops, tours, cleaning and general maintenance and office work. Information: museum, 788-1340.
Watertown Urban Mission Food Pantry and Impossible Dream Thrift Store:Volunteers needed to count and shelve donations in the thrift store and shop with food pantry clients. Information: Anita Ciulo, volunteer coordinator, 782-8440.
American Red Cross, Northern New York chapter:Seeking volunteers for all aspects of Red Cross operations. Visit the office at 203 N. Hamilton St., or call 782-4410.
Retail marketing volunteers sought:Northern Choral Society seeks a volunteer with retail marketing experience to expand CD sales. Information and those interested: Tim Brady, board president, 788-4750, 788-3806, or tbrady01@twcny.rr.com.
Jefferson County
Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired of Jefferson County:Volunteers needed to transport CCTV video magnifiers within its loan program. Information: Nanette, 782-2451.
Red Kettle Campaign:Volunteer coordinator and bellringers needed for the Salvation Army's campaign during the holiday season. Information: 1 (877) 764-7259.
Lewis County
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA):Volunteers needed to serve as advocates for abused and neglected children in Lewis County. Information, application: Amy Kelly, 376-7991 or akelly@resolution-center.net.
Northern Regional Center for Independent Living:Volunteer drivers needed for the center's youth leadership program, twice a month. Drivers receive reimbursement for rides. Information: Aldea LaParr, 376-8696.
Jefferson and Lewis counties
ESOL tutors needed:For all areas in Jefferson and Lewis counties. Knowledge of another language not required. Tutor training, two three-hour sessions of instructions and staff development. No cost. Materials provided. Information: 782-4270 or 376-8188.
Throughout the area
AIDS Community Resources holiday program:Seeking Holiday Angels to buy holiday gifts for ACR clients and their families in Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida, Oswego and St. Lawrence counties. For information and to volunteer: ACR, 1 (800) 475-2430.
AARP:Volunteers needed for the driver safety program. Information: 1 (888) 227-7669 or www.aarp.org/drive.
