NAPERVILLE – Every April, individuals and organizations across the nation recognize the importance of volunteering. State Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) is encouraging local residents to help give back to the community during this public health crisis by volunteering.

“Volunteering has been absolutely crucial during this uncertain time,” Ellman said. “You can safely maintain social distancing guidelines while helping your local communities. Help of any kind has and will continued to be valued by the individuals working on the front lines of this pandemic.”

A list of available volunteer opportunities is available on the Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service website at Serve.Illinois.gov. Opportunities include community-based opportunities such as meal delivery and telephone wellness checks for local seniors. Ellman is also encouraging DuPage County residents who are looking to lend a hand to visit www.givingdupage.org.

Another way to serve your community is by donating blood. Blood centers across the state have experienced a decrease in donations due to COVID-19. The American Red Cross is asking healthy and eligible residents to consider donating blood. To find a center near you, please visit www.redcrossblood.org.

Ellman is also asking residents and businesses to check their supplies for any new, unopened personal protective equipment (PPE) such as N-95 masks, gloves, goggles, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes that can be donated to local fire departments, police departments or hospitals. People who have items on hand they wish to donate should email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and include their address and the quantity of each item.