More than a dozen volunteer organizations from around the county gathered at Kinder Farm Park in Millersville on Saturday for the Volunteer Fair. Sunday marked the beginning of National Volunteer Week, which was established in 1974 to inspire and recognize those who give back to their communities.

Along with all the volunteer groups, Patch editors were at the fair to lend a hand. Patch is committed to fostering a spirit of volunteerism in our communities and to being good citizens of our neighborhoods. It’s a guiding principle of our company and our “Give 5” program encourages employees to volunteer in their communities throughout the year.

Editors conducted video interviews with several groups and will be posting them throughout the week.

This is the first time in several years that the Anne Arundel County Volunteer Center has hosted a Volunteer Fair.

Among the volunteer organizations in attendance Saturday were:

• Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks
• Friends of Anne Arundel County Trails
• Friends of Kinder Farm Park
• Friends of Quiet Waters Park
• RSVP/Department of Aging and Disabilities/Foster Grandparents
• Pets on Wheels
• Volunteer Center of Anne Arundel County including the FLEX volunteer program and Treasure Hunters Clearinghouse
• Meals on Wheels
• STARS – Woodland Job Corps
• Maryland Therapeutic Riding
• Assistance League of the Chesapeake
• Partners In Care
• Sarah’s House
• Youth Golf Network
• Department of Social Services
• Bello Machre