Girl Scouts of Laredo is always looking for volunteers to help girls develop self-esteem, a sense of community and learn to be leaders. Available positions include troop or group leader or assistant leader, trainer, board member, program provider and many others. Whether you have a few hours a week or a day or two a year, there is a Girl Scout position for you.

Please contact Mary Sosa, Service Unit Manager at 326.2134 or 744-4909 for more information.

By donating one hour a week, Monday through Thursday, you can help a child become a better reader and overall student. Each student is tested and given an individualized "prescription" to help improve their skills.

As a HOSTS mentor, you are provided with the lesson plan and activities, specifically designed to address a child's needs. No teaching experience is required.

There are more than 20 elementary and middle schools for you to choose from. For more information, please contact Rosita R. Martinez, HOSTS Coordinator at 956.795.3445 or e-mail rrmartinez@laredoisd.org.

Nearly every weekend in Laredo, a home is being built for someone in need. Each potential homeowner is required to put in hundreds of hours of "sweat equity" or time spent working on the building. This "sweat equity," plus a down payment, qualifies them for keys to the home, with a 30-year, no interest, no profit loan.

For more information on build locations and volunteer requirements, please contact 724.3227. Information about Habitat can be found on their website: http://www.habitat.org/

The Laredo Animal Protective Society can always use your help caring for the less fortunate animals of Laredo. Volunteers can participate in activities such as giving animals TLC, bathing puppies, walking dogs, cleaning pens, and taking pets to hospitals and retirement homes.

Their hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1 to 5 p.m., Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.

The Society is located at 2500 Gonzalez St (in West Laredo, take Lafayette overpass), and can be reached at 956-724-8364.