NEWBURYPORT — As the annual Port Gingerbread Festival gets closer, volunteers are needed not only for the festival but for the Greater Newburyport Village (GNV). An informational session for those interested has been scheduled for Monday, Sept. 30, at 7 p.m. at the Newburyport Public Library, 94 State St., Newburyport. It is open to the public, and light refreshments will be offered.
The Port Gingerbread Festival takes place Dec. 13-15 in Newburyport. The free public event involves a contest and exhibition of gingerbread houses and sculptures made by people of all ages. Volunteers are needed for fundraising, logistics, outreach, and publicity, with time commitments ranging from as little as two hours (one time) to four hours per week. The festival raises funds for Nourishing the North Shore, a nonprofit working to ensure access that everyone can have access to fresh local farm produce.
“Come and see if your interests are a good match with our needs,” organizer Bill Franz said.
A shared goal of Greater Newburyport Village and the Port Gingerbread Festival is to strengthen communities by fostering connections.
“We create opportunities for strangers to become acquaintances, and acquaintances to become friends. This happens quite naturally when people work side by side in the name of helping others,” said organizer Mary Dissette.
The GNV aims to support seniors who want to enjoy living in their own homes for as long as possible.
Its mission is to promote living well and independently through community engagement and neighborly support. Volunteers are needed year-round to offer local rides, walk or check up on pets, or perform simple household tasks. The village serves seniors primarily in Newburyport, Newbury, West Newbury, Amesbury, and Salisbury.
Details about each organization are available at www.greaternewburyportvillage.org and www.portgingerbreadfestival.org. Those who plan to attend are encouraged to RSVP: info@portgingerbread.org