Volunteer
“There is no greater reward in life than to give of yourself and see that gift reflected in the comfort and encouragement of another.”
Being a volunteer can be a life-changing experience for both you and those you support. The Lupus Alliance of Upstate New York is always in need of individuals with expertise, helping hands, a caring ear, creative ideas and special skills to offer. Whatever time and talents you have, you would be a gift to to the lupus community that LAUNY serves. Here are just some of the ways your leadership could help fulfill LAUNY”s mission:
Lupus Education & Advocacy Network Participants and Facilitators
As a lupus patient or caregiver, participating in a local meeting can help both you and others better manage the lupus journey. For information about our scheduled meetings or to establish a meeting at a new time and place, contact LAUNY at [email protected]
As a healthcare professional, student or educator, your knowledge and skills are great assets for meeting facilitators. You can help the Lupus Alliance reach more patients in more places and provide an essential element of care within your own community. LAUNY provides training, materials and support. Meetings can be tailored to fit a variety of schedules, including web-based meetings that can be facilitated right from home.
Support Buddies
If you've had lupus for a number of years or if you are a health care professional, you may wish to lend support to those who have been diagnosed with lupus. When a patient cannot attend a meeting in person and wishes to experience a more personal connection, a Support Buddies may help reduce the fear, confusion, and isolation often caused by this disease. Training and support is provided.
General and Event Support
LAUNY welcomes individuals who can provide general office support; commit to organizational governance, work on special projects, such as community outreach, and serve on event and program planning committees.
Fundraisers
Proceeds from events hosted by LAUNY are used to fund much-needed programs provided to the lupus community for free, including information and resources, new patient orientations, Lupus Education & Advocacy Network (LEAN FORWARD) programs, Lupie Love Notes, and more. A number of fundraising events are held throughout the year. Check our events page to learn more. Or, consider hosting your own event to raise funds of LAUNY’s programs. Successful private events have included summer wienie roasts, craft shows, community fairs, neighborhood family events and dinner parties. The sky's the limit and all help is greatly appreciated!
Internships
The Lupus Alliance of Upstate New York provides unique and flexible opportunities for college students to learn from and contribute to the processes of nonprofit management. LAUNY provides valuable experience, student progress reports and letters of recommendation.
To volunteer or request additional information on any of these opportunities or to suggest a new idea, email [email protected] or call (800) 300-4198, Extension 2.