Connections: Community organizations (updated 2/20/2006)

If you would like to get your club, group or class listed in Connections, send in a short notice with all the basic information — who, what, where and when — and include a contact phone number. The listings must be for free events or from nonprofit organizations. You can deliver it to The New Mexican newsroom; mail it, P.O. Box 2048, Santa Fe, 87504. You can send an e-mail to service@sfnewmexican.com or fax it to 986-9147. The deadline for listings is 5 p.m. Tuesday. Because of space limitations, listings cannot be guaranteed.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Abortion

SUPPORT GROUP: For women and men facing a crisis pregnancy or grieving a past abortion. Free and confidential services include pregnancy tests, peer counseling and community referrals. 3500 Trinity Drive, Suite A-4, Los Alamos. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and evenings by appointment. 662-2300.

ADD/ADHD

SUPPORT GROUP FORMING: For adult women with Attention Deficit Disorder — diagnosed or undiagnosed — or who have a family member diagnosed with ADD/ADHD. During a six-week program, the group will explore symptoms and their impact, learn individual strengths and challenges, plus how to use the information to improve the quality of life. Meeting dates and times to be determined. Call MaryAnn Williams, certified coach for adults with ADD/ADHD at 983-8644. Leave message on Desert Fish extension.

Adoption

ADOPTION SUPPORT GROUP: Free and open to searching/reunited adoptees and parents affected by adoption. St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, Atrium Conference Room, first Monday of each month, 6-7:30 p.m., call 660-8136.

Aging

CONSCIOUS AGING DISCUSSION GROUP: 9:15-11:15 a.m. Fridays. Call Niels at 982-5639.

Al-Anon

AL-ANON/AL-ATEEN MEETINGS: Al-Anon is a worldwide fellowship of people whose lives have been affected by the disease of alcoholism in family members and friends. In Santa Fe, there are 12 English-speaking meetings, two Spanish-speaking meetings and one Al-Ateen meeting every week. For a complete schedule of meetings and contact numbers, call 473-0101.

Alcoholics Anonymous

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: If you want to drink, that's your business. If you want to stop drinking, help is available. For times and locations of meetings in and around Santa Fe call 982-8932 or visit the District 2 Website, www.santafeaa.org. Schedules can also be obtained at Central Office of Santa Fe, 505 Camino de la Marquez, or the Friendship Club, 1915 Rosina St., both in Santa Fe. If you want to talk to someone right now, call 982-8932 or call the AA Hotline Number, 989-5656.

Alzheimer's Disease

ALZHEIMER'S MEMORY LOSS AND GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP FOR CAREGIVERS: New group. First Monday, 1:30-3 p.m. 10 Camino de Vaca at Mi Casa Bonita. Call Jan Olsen at 424-0577 for more information.

ALZHEIMER'S Family Support Group: If your family member is experiencing confusion or memory loss join a professionally facilitated family support group, third Thursday of the month, 6 p.m., 402 E. Rodeo Road. Call Ruth or Velma of Sierra Vista Retirement at 986-9696.

SOMEONE IN YOUR FAMILY EXPERIENCING CONFUSION, OR MEMORY LOSS: Sierra Vista Retirement Community offers a professionally facilitated family support group held monthly on the third Thursday, 6 p.m. 402 Rodeo Road, east of St. Francis Drive, 986-9696.

Anxiety/Compulsions

ANXIETY AND PANIC SEMINAR: For those looking for the latest treatments for the most prevalent problems of our time, along with how to control the basic cause: worry. Presented by Richard C. Raynard, PhD, Clinical psychologist. Friendly discussion, and literature. 7 p.m., first Tuesday of the month, 1800 Old Pecos Trail, Suite B., call 231-8625 for information.

NONVIOLENT COMMUNICATION PRACTICE GROUP: Facilitated by Jack Lehman from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Monday. CEUs available. How to get free of violence, including the violence of judging, criticizing self and others and communicate what is truly important through honesty and radical empathy. Donation requested. Call 995-8200 for information.

NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR THE MENTALLY ILL: Meets 7-9 p.m. second Monday for education and fourth Monday for sharing and caring, La Luz/Life Link (new location), 2325 Cerrillos Road, on southwest corner at traffic light across from College Plaza Shopping Center. North entrance from parking lot behind building.

RECOVERY INC.: A free self-help group, not a 12-step program, for those suffering from anxiety, depression, panic attacks, anger and nervousness. The recovery method, develped by psychiatrist Abraham Low, uses many of the techniques of cognitive behavior therapy, helping participants identify the thoughts that trigger symptoms and teaching participants to change the way they think about and react to stressful events. Meets at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays at Temple Beth Shalom, 205 E. Barcelona Road, in the classroom with the blue door. Call 988-2748 for information.

Brain Injury Survivor

BRAIN INJURY SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUP: Meets 2-3 p.m. Mondays at New Vistas, 1205 Parkway Dr., Suite A. Call Terri Moore, 471-1001, ext. 39.

Cancer

Cancer Institute of New Mexico Foundation Support Groups: Survivors Mixed Group (male and female), self-facilitated, every Tuesday, 1 to 2:30 p.m.; Navigating Through Cancer Treatment, facilitated by Jan McGough, RN, BA, OCN, every 3rd Saturday of the month at 10 a.m., Nutritional Support Group, facilitated by Janet Esperanza, RD, CNSD, LD, last Wednesday of every month, 11 a.m. to noon. Groups are held at 490 A Zia Road in the Community Room on the 2nd floor. For more information call: 955-7958.

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP: Fourth Wednesdays: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Facilitated by Bob Mallin, M.D. St. Vincent Cancer Treatment Conference Room. 466-4242.

Chronic illness

CHRONIC ILLNESS: An eight-week class for adults with chronic illness will begin on Feb. 14. Give yourself a Ventine's Day gift of support and self-care. Register before Feb. 13. Call Mary at New Vistas at 471-1005, ext. 17.

Cocaine Anonymous

COCAINE ANONYMOUS: Wednesdays: Open meeting, 6 p.m. in the small room at the Friendship Club, 1915 Rosina St.; Saturdays: 5:30 p.m. at Clare Hall A, St. Francis Cathedral, 213 Cathedral Place. Sundays: open meeting, big book study, 7:30 p.m., Church of Religious Science, 505 Camino de los Marquez. Information hotline: (866) 584-6460.

Co-Dependents

CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS: For men and women, Tuesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Church, Galisteo and Barcelona, Fellowship Hall. Call 438-2736.

CODA: Open 12-step group for recovery from co-dependency. Meets at 7:30 p.m. Mondays at White Rock United Methodist Church, 580 Meadow Lane. Call 672-3874.

Debtor's Anonymous

DEBTOR'S ANONYMOUS: A 12-step program for people with financial problems: Being in debt, overspending, under-earning and other related issues. Thursdays: Business Owners' Meeting, 5:30-6:30 p.m., St. John's United Methodist Church, 100 Old Pecos Trail. Call 424-7366 for information. Fridays: Fragrance free meeting, from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m., newcomers welcome, Friendship Club, 1915 1/2 Rosina St. Call 982-5653 for information.

Depression

BIPOLAR SUPPORT: A supportgroup for people with bipolar disorder and depression meets at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays St. John's United Methodist Church. Send e-mail to somebodywannabe@gmail.com or call Doris at 466-4822.

Diabetes

DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP: County Extension Office, Rodeo Grounds, fourth Wednesday of every other month, 10 a.m. to noon. 471-4711.

Gambling

COMPULSIVE/PROBLEM GAMBLING PSYCHOTHERAPY: Support group with licensed therapist. Meets 6 p.m. Tuesdays in Los Alamos. The group is free and open to the public. Call 662-1419 for more information.

GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS: If gambling is causing problems in areas of your life (or life of a loved one), we encourage you to attend our open meeting. Mondays: 1418 Luisa, Suite 3, 7:15 p.m. If you cannot make it, call 984-7277. Tuesdays: Friendship Club, 1915 Rosina St., 7:15 p.m. 984-7277. Wednesdays: Compulsive gambling psychotherapy group, free psychotherapy group for compulsive and problem gamblers. Los Alamos, 7 p.m. For details, call 662-1419. Thursdays: Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Española. Call 984-7277.

Gays, Lesbian, Bisexual or Transgender

GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL OR TRANSGENDERED PERSON SUPPORT GROUP: Tuesdays: If you are in an abusive relationship, free help is available. Esperanza Shelter for Battered Families. 474-5536.

GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL OR TRANSGENDERED: Group now forming, Thursday nights 6-8 p.m. Call the Southwestern Counseling Center for more information, 471-8575.

Grandparents

GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN: Free support group Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. followed by light dinner. Baby-sitting provided. Call Diane Dennedy-Frank at Catholic Charities, 424-9789.

Grief support

GRIEVING THE DEATH OF A LOVED ONE SUPPORT GROUP: Wednesdays: Sponsored by the Hospice Center. Call for more information and to register. 988-2211.

GRIEF SUPPORT FOR ALL AGES: Gerard's House is offering free weekly group and individual support for children, teens, and adults. Grief support and support for families who are living with someone who has a life threatening illness. Mondays: Ages 3-6, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays: Ages 7-10, 4:30-5:45 p.m. Wednesdays: Ages 11-14, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thursdays: Ages 15-20, 6:30-7:30 p.m. 3204 Mercantile Court Suite C. For more information or for a summer schedule call Suzy at 424-1800.

GRIEF, LOSS AND DEPRESSION: Support group and free depression screening, 6-7 p.m., Thursdays, 1800 Old Pecos Trail, Suite B, (off Calle Medico). Call Fran Burton, PhD/LMFT/LPCC. licensed clinician for information and to register, 690-1090.

Midlife Transition

Women in Midlife Transition: Pre-to-post menopausal, ages 45 to 60. There will be discussion, art projects, writing exercises and sharing, facilitated by two Southwestern College Master's program students, Melinda and Barbara. Meetings will be held rom 7-9 p.m. on Tuesdays at Southwestern College Counseling Center, 1628 St. Michael's Drive, Santa Fe. Group will start Jan. 24. Call the counseling center at 471-8575 to confirm space.

Mothers Only

FIRST-TIME MOMS OVER 40: Support group to explore the complex and demanding physical, emotional and spiritual issues that come with raising children as mature women. Eight weeks, 471-0928.

MS

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SUPPORT GROUP: Meets the second Saturday of each month at St. John's Methodist Church. For information call Liz Wray at 983-3740, Jane South 466-4014.

Narcotics Anonymous

For dailing meeting times and locations, call (505) 984-2098. The NA Helpline is 984-2098 or (800) 258-2971 .

Nicotine Anonymous

Nicotine Anonymous: A 12-Step program that meets every Tuesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Clare Hall behind St. Francis Cathedral. All you need to attend is a desire to stop using nicotine. For more informatin, visit the Web site at www.nicotine-anonymous.org or call Dave at 690-4082.

TEEN SMOKING CESSATION GROUP: Open to all Santa Fe teens who are thinking about quitting or want to help someone quit. Santa Fe Boys & Girls Club multipurpose room, 730 Alto St., 10-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call 983-6632.

Open-heart surgery

OPEN-HEART SURGERY SUPPORT GROUP: Sponsored by Women's Health Services, a nonprofit primary care practice dedicated to providing woman-focused health care. Group meets 5:30 to 7 p.m. Mondays through Oct. 24. Visit the Web site at www.womenshealthsantafe.org or call 955-9436.

OPEN-HEART COACH: Support for those who have had open-heart surgery also is available through teleconferencing sessions. Visit the Web site at www.openheartcoach.com.

Overeaters Anonymous

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS: Every day: 8-9 a.m. Open Meeting, Friendship Club, 1915 Rosina St., Sundays: Open Step Study, Friendship Club, Thursdays: 7 p.m.-8 p.m., Open meeting, Indian Hospital, (in the library) 1700 Cerrillos Rd., Saturdays: 10-11 a.m.Open fragrance-free meeting, United Church of Santa Fe, 1804 Arroyo Chamiso Road. No Fees. For more information, call 984-1315.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS: Meets noon to 1 p.m. Mondays at Los Alamos Christian Chruch, 92 E. Road.Call 672-1498.

TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY (TOPS): Meets Thursdays at Christ Lutheran Church, 1701 Arroyo Chamiso. Weigh in at 10 a.m. Meeting at 10:30 a.m. Call the group's leader, Elna Strand, at 424-7095.

Parkinson's Disease

PARKINSON'S DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP MEETING: Meets from 1:30-2:30 p.m. on the fourth Friday of the month in the Atrium Room, lower level of St. Vincent Regional Medical Center. Call Zalla Galya, group coordinator at (866) 899-5669.

Personal growth

PERSONAL GROWTH GROUP: Exploring self through sharing, expressive arts, meditation and other experiential methods. Meets from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through march 17 at Southwestern Counseling Center, 1628 St. Michael's Dr. Call the center for information and registration at 471-8575.

Pflag

PFLAG: Parents, families, friends of lesbians and gays meets 7-9 p.m. every fourth Tuesday. St. Bede's Episcopal Church. 424-8951.

Post-abortion

POST-ABORTION SUPPORT GROUP: For women and men facing a crisis pregnancy or grieving a past abortion. Free and confidential services include pregnancy tests, peer counseling and community referrals. 3500 Trinity Drive, Suite A-4, Los Alamos. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and evenings by appointment. 662-2300.

Rape Survivors

RAPE SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUP: Free therapeutic support for survivors of rape, including spousal, date, stranger and acquaintance rape. Support is crucial to recovery. 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays. 984-5525.

Relationship/Communication

IMPROVE COMMUNICATION: Support group exploring positive regard and improving communication skills in relationships, family, and social situations. 7-8 p.m., Wednesdays, 1800 Old Pecos Trail, Suite B, (off Calle Medico). Call Fran Burton, PhD/LMFT/LPCC. licensed clinician for information and to register, 690-1090.

NONVIOLENT COMMUNICATION PRACTICE GROUP: Facilitated by Jack Lehman, LPCC from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Monday. CEUs available. How to get free of violence, including the violence of judging, criticizing self and others and communicate what is truly important. Donation requested. Call 995-8200.

Sex Addicts Anonymous

SEX ADDICTS ANONYMOUS: 12-Step support for sex addiction, love and relationship addiction. Mondays: Noon, closed. 1st & 3rd Tuesdays: Women only, 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays: Men only, 5:30 pm, De Vargas Center Community Room. Fridays: 5:30 p.m., closed. Sundays: 12:30, closed. For all locations and more information, call 466 3042.

SEXAHOLICS ANONYMOUS: 12-step program patterned closely after AA, where relief from destructive sexual compulsion can be found. Mondays: 7:30 pm, Closed. White book study and sharing. Call 466 3042.

Spirituality based

LIVING THE FOUR AGREEMENTS: Therapeutic group now forming in Santa Fe. You are invited to grow in the practice and application of the Four Agreements as taught through the Wisdom of the Toltecs and Don Miguel Ruiz. Learn and grow in personal freedom with those of like consciousness, Mondays, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Cost is $10 per session, facilitated by two professionally trained students of Southwestern College. For information, call 471-8575.

RADICAL TRANSFORMATION: Sunday: Discover how you are the source of change in the world. Alaya, a nonprofit spiritual organization, presents an Inspired Talk by Life Teacher, Ishvara, 11 am. 989-8578 for information and directions. Tuesday and Thursday, Q & A with Life Teacher, Ishvara, 7 pm. Send e-mail to www.alaya.org or call 989-8578.

Suicide Support

suicide support group: For family and friends who have experienced the death of a loved one by suicide. First and third Thursday of each month, 6-7:30 p.m., Timothy Fleming Building, 2500 Cerrillos Road, Joan Murphy at 476-7889; 231-4349. Ages 18 and older.

Teenagers Only

TEENS AT RISK/STRUGGLING: First Saturday of each month. Monthly support group and resources for parents whose children are doing drugs, getting into trouble or causing problems. Call 992-3506.

TGWSG

TGWSG supports and provides information to heterosexual partners in relationship with a transgender individual. Pot-luck luncheon at 2 p.m. every fourth Saturday of the month. All transinclusive folks are welcome, as well as their partners. Send an e-mail to TGWSGSantaFe@aol.com or call (505) 466-4277.

Women Only

WOMENS SUPPORT GROUP: For women to explore and move beyond issues of abuse and domestic violence, 7-8:30 p.m., first Thursday of each month, 1800 Old Pecos Trail, Suite B, (off Calle Medico). Registration required, 690-1090.

Womens Support Group for Complex Pain Disorders: Emotional support for conditions relating to fibromyalgia, rhuematoid arthritis, lupus, and myofacial pain. Ongoing every other Tuesday, 5:30-7 p.m., call 471-5805 or 982-1722.

VOLUNTEER

Animal care

ASSISTANCE DOGS OF THE WEST: Need volunteers. Lots to do, flexible hours, community involvement. 986-9748.

ESPAÑOLA ANIMAL SHELTER: We are looking for people who can drive our vans to mobile adoption sites. We presently need people who can assist with mobile adoptions in Santa Fe, Los Alamos and Española. We are particularly interested in those who can assist at the shelter in Española with grooming and walking dogs. If interested, call (505) 753-8662.

FELINES & FRIENDS: Reliable people needed to care for cats on display at Petco and at our veternarians's office. Foster homes also are needed as well as a volunteer coordinator. For more information, send an e-mail to bobbi@felinesandfriends.org or call 316-CAT1.

KINDRED SPIRITS ANIMAL SANCTUARY: Elder-care and hospice for dogs, horses, and fowl. We need volunteers for animal care and cuddling; massage, bodywork, creative sewing, grounds-keeping and handy person help. Please call Ulla, 471-5366.

RANDALL DAVEY AUDUBON CENTER: At the end of Upper Canyon Road is seeking volunteers to serve as docents in the historic Davey Home and Studio for tours at 2 p.m. on Mondays. All training provided. Additional volunteers are needed for research pm Davey and his family. The center also has openings for volunteeers in the Nature Store. Call Kim at 983-4609.

SANTA FE ANIMAL SHELTER & HUMANE SOCIETY: Exciting, ongoing trained animal-care volunteer opportunities include dog walkers and trainers, pet brushing and grooming, cat and kitten cuddlers, house rabbit handling, staffing satellite dog and cat adoption center at PetsMart, in-shelter pet supply store, adoption counseling, assisting in spay/neuter clinic and mobile spay/neuter van, humane education, customer relations, clerical assistance. Other appealing volunteer options are available. All volunteers are valued. Visit the Web site at www.sfhumanesociety.org or stop by the shelter at 100 Caja Del Rio Road. Call 983-4309, ext. 610.

THE WILDLIFE CENTER: Rehabilitates and releases the injured and orphaned wildlife of New Mexico. Volunteers are needed to feed the animals, clean cages, offer medical-care support and lead educational tours. The center is 2 miles south of Española. Call Donna at (505) 753-9505.

Arts and museums

AWAKENING MUSEUM: Volunteer Program is looking for Outgoing and Enthusiastic poeple to work in the Museum and Bookshop. Call 954-4025 for information.

FINE ARTS FOR CHILDREN & TEENS seeks volunteers to help children in visual-art studio classes for approximately four hours a week at schools and other sites. Training and supervision is provided. Send an e-mail to teacher@factsantafe.org or call Keelan at 992-2787.

SANTA FE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM: Adults and teenagers are needed to help children interact with exhibits, facilitate visitors' experiences in the greenhouse and gardens, help care for plants and animals, assist visiting artists and scientists and work in the museum shop. The staff provides monthly orientation and training sessions for new volunteers. To volunteer or for more information, call 989-8359, ext. 117.

SENIORS REACHING OUT (SRO): SRO needs performers and readers for Readers Theater to perform in elementary schools and for elders. Call Suzanne at 988-5522.

WINDHORSE TEAM: Forming a team of people with yourthful energy, abstract artists, dancers, etc. to help a youth recovering from psychosis. He needs people who can do everyday chores with him in a way that grounds his spirituality. Call Anhara at 983-5564.

Caregivers

CASA REAL HEALTH-CARE CENTER: Looking for volunteers to help with activities such as birthday parties, outings, bingo, reading to residents, writing letters, answering phones and simply visiting with our residents. If you would like to be a volunteer, please contact Ramona McLaren at 984-8313.

CHALLENGE NEW MEXICO: Volunteers needed from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program. The program provides theraphy and recreation to persons with disabilities. Volunteers receive training, experience is not necessary. 470-1815 or 988-7621.

LOS RIOS OF HOSPICE: The hospice of Española is seeking volunteers in a loving community service enviroment. Call Dick Lumaghi, (505) 747-2525.

PRESBYTERIAN MEDICAL SERVICES EARLY HEAD START: Volunteers are needed to provide child care on group family nights, held twice a month from 5:30-7 p.m. Ability to speak Spanish is helpful. Call 982-4484, ext. 12 or 955-1201.

UPAYA METTA REFUGE PROGRAM: We offer support to those with life threatening and chronic illness and their care-givers. Weekly support group. Quarterly workshops. Contact Jean or Judith at 986-8518.

Exchange students

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM: Seeking local host families for male and female students ages 15-18 from a variety of countries around the world. Call (800) 733-2773 for more information.

Food banks

BIENVENIDOS OUTREACH: In need of volunteeer help in our food pantry on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., or any hours you are willing to donate. We accept food donations and clothing. Call 986-0583 or come to 1219 Luisa Street, Suite No. 8 during those hours.

Foster care

NEW MEXICAN CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILIES DEPARTMENT: Each year, thousands of abused and neglected children in custody need short or longer-term foster care, and hundreds of these children become available for adoption. Foster parents receive a monthly stipend plus financial help with daycare. Medical coverage is provided for each child in the home. All foster and adoptive parent training is free and takes place evenings and weekends. To learn how you can make a real difference in the life of a New Mexico child, call (800) 432-2075.

TEAMBULDERS COUNSELING SERVICES: Children in need of short-erm and long-term treatment foster care. Treatment foster parents receive training, support and compensation. All foster-parent training is free and takes place monthly. Call 471-5006.

Mentoring

READY FOR A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE?: Who played ball with you? Who gave you game? Each day Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern New Mexico teaches children skills to stay in the game. You can help. Call 983-8360. Who kindled your imagination? Who stimulated your creativity? Each day Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern New Mexico stimulates children and empowers them to pursue their dreams. You can help. Call 983-8360.

MENTORMOMS: A unique volunteer-based support program that matches community volunteers with pregnant teenagers. Volunteers provide one-on one support to a teen through the pregnancy, birth and first year of the child's life. Volunteers receive on going training. Call Lisa at 424-9789, ext. 107.

PEER COUNSELORS: Would you like to be of assistance to others? Do you value self-learning and growth? If you would enjoy being part of an active community of volunteers, consider volunteering as a peer counselor. Call to register at 474-8965.

Outdoors

ADAPTIVE SKI PROGRAM: The 20-year-old Adaptive Ski Program for people with disabilities is soliciting volunteer instructors for the coming season. For additional information, contact Ira Thomas, Santa Fe program coordinator, 690 Callecita Jicarilla, Santa Fe, NM 87505. Visit the Web site at www.adaptiveski.org or call (505) 992-2709.

ECOVERSITY: Volunteer work parties and potluck picnics are held from 4 to 8 p.m. every first and third Wednesday of the month. Join EcoVersity for outdoors for the land planting, weeding, digging and harvesting. Bring something delicious to share. Call 424-9797. EcoVersity is at 2639 Agua Fría St. between Osage Avenue and Siler Road.

MEMORIAL STATE PARK: Seeking volunteers to help with gardening, maintenance, visitor-center staffing, interpretive programs and more. Benefits and hours vary with position. For details, contact Mike Heath at 983-7175.

NEW MEXICO VOLUNTEERS FOR THE OUTDOORS: Looking for people to assist with trail maintenance, shelter repair, park and wilderness cleanup and other outdoor projects across the state. General information meetings are on the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. For information or to volunteer, call (505) 994-1991.

Office staff

AMERICAN RED CROSS: The Tierra Del Sol Chapter is seeking volunteers for the main office and the disaster-services division. For information, visit the Red Cross office, or call (505) 747-7106 or (866) 895-7106.

CASA CERRILLOS: A community for previously homeless people, is a branch of St. Elizabeth Shelter. Volunteers are needed to drive residents to various appointments, to do office work, and to assist with community activities. Call Katherine at 471-3456.

NEW MEXICO STATE AGENCY ON AGING: Volunteers needed to help protect Medicare. Work part-time in the Santa Fe office, taking information from callers about Medicare fraud, waste and abuse. Call (866) 842-9230, ext. 112 for more information.

Prison outreach

PRISON PROJECT OF SANTA FE: We need volunteers to respond to requests for information from prisoners nationwide and organizing our newslatter. Call 982-9520, or mail to P.O. Box 1911, 87504.

Seniors

FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAMS: This program recruits seniors to work with children in classrooms at school, at Head Start or at a day-care center. Seniors provide guidance and support to students who are at risk of falling behind in their school work. In sum, the seniors fill the roll of grandparent to the at-risk student. Volunteers must be 60 years old or older and qualify by income for federal programs. A tax-free stipend of $2.65 an hour will be paid as well as $5 a week for mileage reimbursment. Call Melanie Montoya at 955-4761.

SENIOR COMPANION PROGRAM: This program recruits seniors to visit other seniors in nursing homes and private homes. Volunteers are matches with theseniors who need companionship on a regular basis. Volunteers must be 60 years old or older and qualify by income for federal programs. A tax-free stipend of $2.65 an hour will be paid as well as $5 a week for mileage reimbursment. Call Melanie Montoya at 955-4761.

Schools and tutors

THE DE VARGAS PROJECT: A joint partnership of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation and the Santa Fe Public Schools, is looking for volunteers. The project, in its seventh year of supplying tutor volunteers, is broadening its scope to assist teachers in many other areas such as career fairs, book fairs, parent dinners, computer skills, field trips, paper work, etc. We are also developing a model (or blueprint) of the program that can be utilized by other school partnerships. Come join us and see how rewarding volunteer work can be. Call Chuck or M.A. Klein at 466-4255.

LET'S READ: Volunteers needed to teach adult reading, GED or ESL. Minimum 1 hour per week. Training and supervision provided. Please call Española Let's Read office at (505) 753-9300. Ask for Frances or John.

THE SANTA FE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB: We need math and reading tutors. Reward yourself by giving a child the gift of learning. Tutors in reading program for first- and second-graders are needed from 4-4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at the club, 730 Alto St. No commitment is needed. Volunteers just come when they can. For more information, call Lou Finley at 988-7278.

COMMUNITY BASICS

Art

Walking tours

ART WALKING TOURS: Meet at the shop steps (museum closed), Museum of Fine Arts, 10 a.m. $10. 476-5072.

Books

Bible study groups

COMMUNITY BIBLE STUDY for women and children at First Baptist Church, 1605 Old Pecos Trail from 10 a.m. to noon. on Thursdays. The in-depth study will include Ephesians, Phillipans, Thessalonians, James and John. Infant care is available. Call 982-4895.

THE PASTOR'S CLASS at Berean Baptist Church meets at 10 a.m. and at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. These interactive, verse-by-verse classes — now focused on the Book of Romans — are conducted by Pastor Dave Braddock. Send an e-mail to pastor.bereanbaptist.sfnm@juno.com for location and more information on the classes. The church is off Cerrillos Road at the Monterrey/Baca intersection, just behind the Tecolote Cafe. Call 982-5706.

Book discussion

A COURSE IN MIRACLES: A study group on A Course in Miracles, a book that combines spiritual wisdom with psychological insight and teaches the process of removing blocks to the awareness of love's presence. Meets from 6:30-8 p.m. on Mondays at Unity Santa Fe, 1212 Unity Way. The group is open to everyone and can be joined any time. A love offering will be accepted. Call Marcy Matasick at 688-2000.
STUDY GROUP: A Course in Miracles at noon on Thursdays at the home of Mary Lou Cook, 321 Calle Loma Norte. Call Cook at 983-2894.

BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP FOR MEN AND WOMEN: Group selects, reads and informally discusses popular classics of European and American literature. For readings and location, call 466-2537.

RAYS OF THE DAWN: A study group on Thurman Fleet's Rays of the Dawn: Natural Laws of the Body, Mind and Soul, meets 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. For information, call (505) 474-3259.

ULTIMATE THINGS: A book discussion group at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church reading Dennis E. Engleman's Ultimate Things, a book that presents an Orthodox Christian perspective on the End Times. Topics include the Anti-Christ, the Rapture, Armageddon, the Second Coming and the Last Judgment. Group meets from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesdays (beginning Sept. 21) in the church hall, 231 E. Cordova Road. Books are available in the church book store. The public is invited. Call 983-5826.

Children and teens

KID OPERA THEATRE: 1024 Cielo Azul. 989-7873.

NATIONAL MOMS CLUB: Local chapters of the national MOMS Club offers play groups, park dates, museum visits, outings, service projects and other activities for moms and their children. Call Marjolijn at 466-3864.

THE PLANETARIUM: At Santa Fe Community College, 6401 Richards Ave. 428-1777, ext. 6.

SANTA FE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM: 1050 Old Pecos Trail. 989-8359.

SANTA FE YOUTH SYMPHONY: 1050 Old Pecos Trail. 982-8483.

SKATEBOARD PARKS: In De Vargas Park, 302 W. DeVargas St.; Franklin Miles Park, 1027 Camino Carlos Rey.

WAREHOUSE 21: Santa Fe Teen Art Center. 1614 Paseo de Peralta. 989-4423.

Health and fitness

BREAST-FEEDING IS BEST FEEDING!: For breast-feeding help, referral or information, call toll-free, 24 hours a day at (866) BEST-FED.

FAMILY PLANNING CLINIC: First and second Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; third and fourth Tuesdays, 8 a.m. to noon. Appointment required. Sliding-scale fee. Santa Fe County Health Office, 827-3560.

Free-Energy Clinic: Holistic, spiritual healing events and classes. Call (505) 988-9272. Web site is www.HealingEnergyProducts.com.

HAPPY HOUR AT THE FAMILY YMCA: Everyone is invited to work out and wind down from the work week. Full use of facility including racquetball and squash courts, weight room, bench conditioning class, hot tub and steam room available. YMCA, Los Alamos, 5-8 p.m. Cost: $3.

HOPE PREGNANCY CENTER SERVICES: Helps women, men and families who are facing unplanned pregnancies. Post-abortion support groups are available. 3500 Trinity Drive, Suite D, Los Alamos. For appointment, call 662-2300. Walk-ins are welcome Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

LA LECHE LEAGUE: Information and support for breastfeeding mothers. Meets second and third Fridays of each month, Vitamin Cottage, 3328 Cerrillos Road, 10 a.m. For information, call 989-5808.

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE CLINIC: By appointment only. No fee. Santa Fe County Health Office, Mondays and Thursdays, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. 827-3560.

VILLA THERESE CLINIC: Offers well-child and sick-child care to families unable to pay. Eye exams, dental extractions, foot care and high-blood-pressure screenings are offered to adults. For details, call 983-8561.

Libraries

FRAY ANGELICO CHAVEZ HISTORY LIBARY AND PHOTOGRAPHIC ARCHIVES: 120 Washington Ave. 476-5092.

MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS LIBRARY: 107 W. Palace Ave. 476-5061.

NEW MEXICO STATE LIBARY: 1209 Camino Carlos Rey. 476-9700.

OLIVER LAFARGE BRANCH LIBRARY: 1730 LLANO ST. 995-4860.

SANTA FE PUBLIC LIBRARY: 145 Washington Ave. 955-6780. www.santafelibrary.org

ST. JOHN'S COLLEGE LIBRARY: 1160 Camino de la Cruz Blanca. 984-6042.

Museums

THE MUSEUM OF NEW MEXICO OPERATES FOUR MUSEUMS IN SANTA FE: The Palace of the Governors, 105 W. Palace Ave. (476-5100); Museum of Fine Arts, 107 W. Palace Ave. (476-5072); Museum of International Folk Art, 706 Camino Lejo (476-1200) and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture, 708-710 Camino Lejo (476-1250). All are open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All museums are closed Mondays, New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission: $5 for a single-museum NM resident adult admission. $7 for a single-museum nonresident adult admission. Free admission: For youth 16 and younger and Museum of NM Foundation. members. Every Sunday, all New Mexico residents with ID are free. Four-day pass for unlimited visits to five Museums (Museum of Fine Arts, Palace of the Governors, Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Museum of International Folk Art and Museum of Spanish Colonial Art) for $15. Information: 24-hour recorded information: (505) 827-6463.

AWAKENING MUSEUM: 125 N. Guadalupe St. 954-4025.

ARCHDIOCESE OF SANTA FE MUSEUM: 223 Cathedral Place, 983-3811.

BATAAN MEMORIAL MILITARY MUSEUM AND LIBRARY: 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 474-1670.

GEORGIA O'KEEFFE MUSEUM: 217 Johnson St. 946-1017. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Mondays through Thursdays; open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Fridays; open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Closed New Year's Day, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Admission: $8, seniors (age 60 and over): $7, New Mexico residents: $4, children 17 and under and students: free with ID; Students over 18, $4 with ID. No charge from 5-8 p.m. on Fridays.

INDIAN ARTS RESEARCH CENTER: School of American Research, 660 Garcia St., offers public tours of its extensive collections of Native American art at 2 p.m. on Friday afternoon. $15 per person; free to SAR members. Reserve in advance at 954-7205.

INSTITUTE OF AMERICAN INDIAN ARTS: 108 Cathedral Place, 983-8900.

MUSEUM OF SPANISH COLONIAL ART: 750 Camino Lejo. 982-2226.

POEH MUSEUM: Off U.S. 285 next to the Pojoaque Pueblo Visitors Center. Open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 455-2489

SANTA FE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM: 1050 Old Pecos Trail, 989-8359.

SITE SANTA FE: 1606 Paseo de Peralta. Exhibition hours are Wedne