HandsOn Volunteer Network to close in October

WARREN — The 12-member board of directors for HandsOn Volunteer Network of the Mahoning Valley voted to dissolve the organization effective Oct. 1, the organization announced at a press conference today.

The shuttering is due to a lack of federal, state and local funding. The organization also saw a decrease in demand to connect organizations with volunteers.

"It's a choice do you chase the dollars and stray from your mission or do you stay to your mission and serve the community," said Maureen Drummond, HandsOn executive director who has been with nonprofit organization for 20 years.

HandsOn formed in 1984 as a way to utilize volunteerism to help the older population remain independent and expanded to become a "comprehensive community resource promoting and fostering volunteerism, and strengthening nonprofits throughout the Valley."

For example, although it is not a direct volunteer service, in 2013 the organization helped place more than 3,000 volunteers in one time or long term opportunities.

Altogether the organization, that is an affiliate of the national HandsOn, has five employees, three full-time and two part-time.

The board and staff set up a transition plan to close out contracts, bookkeeping and complete events the organization is still a part of, including Youngstown Beerfest.

Drummond said the funds the organization has will most likely all be used in the closing efforts.