ANNUAL MANUAL- Groups
SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS
Literacy Volunteers of Charlottesville/Albemarle- Provides free confidential tutoring sessions for adults in literacy and English as a second language and is always in need of tutors. Help to create a community of readers– volunteer to teach an adult to read. Call 977-3838.
Charlottesville Center for Peace and Justice- Promotes education and action for peace and justice and pursues governmentental responsibility, meets various times throughout each month. Call the message line for updates and the next meeting time: 961-6278.
Jefferson Area Board for Aging- Provides care on a paying or non-paying basis enabling senior citizens to live at home. 817-5222
Monticello Area Community Action Agency- Dedicated to eliminating both the causes and conditions of poverty. 295-3171
Lions Clubs- "To create and foster a spirit of understanding among all people for humanitarian needs by providing voluntary services through community involvement and international cooperation." There's a whole pride of chapters of the world's largest service organization in the area. The Charlottesville Host Lions Club meets the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6:15pm at the Omni and can be reached through secretay Joe Hannemann at . The Charlottesville Lioness Club meets on the fourth Tuesday at 6pm at Ponderosa and can be reached through Betty Thomas at . The Charlottesville Thomas Jefferson Lions meet second and fourth Tuesdays at Ponderosa and can be reached through Jerome Ix at . The Crozet Lions meet second and fourth Mondays at 6:30pm at the Meadows Community Center and can be reached at 823-2105. The Rivanna Lions meet on the second and fouth Wednesdays at 6:30pm at the Lake Monticello clubhouse and can be reached through Kenneth Quantock at . The Scottsville Lions meet second and fourth Wednesdays at 7pm at the Scottsville United Methodist Church and can be reached through Barry Grove at . The Lions of Nelson County meet first and third Mondays and can be reached through president Ken Gerke at .
Junior League of Charlottesville- A non-profit women's volunteer organization for community-minded women. Monthly meetings. To become a member, call 971-2937 or email .
Friends of the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library- A fundraising organization, best known for its big annual book sale. 977-8467 or
Rotary Club of Charlottesville- Another chapter of business leaders and professionals working to benefit the community with education and aid. Meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month @ 6pm at the Omni Hotel downtown. For more information, email President Duane Snow at .
Kiwanis Club of Charlottesville- "Serving the Children of the World." Local chapter of the international organization dedicated to helping and supporting kids. Charlottesville club meetings are held at the Ponderosa Steak House every Monday evening except the fourth week of the month. Membership info: 978-2140.
Optimist Club of the Blue Ridge- Service to youth is its major focus. Except during the summer, dinner meetings are held the first Monday of each month at 7pm at the Doubletree Hotel, while breakfast meetings take place the Saturday after the third Monday at the Golden Corral at 8:30am. Call Ray Heron at 980-4961.
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates)- Volunteers go to court to represent abused and neglected children. Training offered twice a year. Make a difference in a child's life! 971-7515.
Service Dogs of Virginia- Acquiring, training, and placing service dogs for the disabled and children with autism. 295-9503
Children, Youth and Family Services- Family support by both professionals and volunteers. 296-4118 or
Emergency Food Bank- A volunteer organization that provides a two- or three-day food supply for hungry families. To volunteer or donate food, call 979-9180
On Our Own- A community-run program to aid long-time consumers of mental health services. 979-2440 or
Piedmont Housing Alliance- A private, non-profit organization that addresses affordable housing issues. 817-2436
Salvation Army- Services include emergency shelter, emergency services, childcare, a thrift store, and transitional housing programs. The thrift store is located at 604 Cherry Ave. (979-5230). Administration: 295-4058.
Shelter for Help in Emergency- Provides services for victims of domestic violence, crisis intervention, information, and referrals. 24-hour hotline: 293-8509, collect calls accepted. [email protected]
Teensight- Free services for men and women under 22. Open weekdays, 8:30am-4:30pm. 295-8336 or
Thomas Jefferson Area Coalition for the Homeless- They're working to eliminate homelessness in central Virginia. Meetings open to the public on the third Tuesday of each month.
Woman's Club of Greene County- Meeting the second Monday at a different place every month, this group sponsors, among other things, the Greene County Food Bank, an Annual Bazaar that raises money for two scholarships, and an annual Christmas gift drive. 985-6648 or
Charlottesville/Albemarle Commission on Children and Families- Citizens working to identify local needs related to families, facilitate community strategies, implement coordinated initiatives, increase access to family related information, and advise local government. 872-4545
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Charlottesville- In addition to building homes for those who don't have one, the group runs the Habitat Store, which sells new and salvaged materials donated by the community. Additionally, they seek to make home maintenence more affordable and encourage responsible stewardship of natural resources. 293-6331
SEARCH AND RESCUE
Charlottesville Professional Firefighters Association- Remember when you used to say you were going to be a firefighter when you grew up? Well, some of those kids actually meant it. 866-422-1858
Albemarle County Fire and Rescue- It's "the home of the model volunteer/career fire and emergency medical services system." They say they aim to provide the highest quality services to preserve the lives, property, and environment of our community. Info on becoming a volunteer: 296-5833 or .
Community Emergency Response Team- This group is all about people helping people, rescuer safety, and doing the greatest good for the greatest number. Two-hour weekly training sessions offered in an eight-week course. 971-1263 or .
Blue Ridge Mountain Rescue Group- Composed of volunteers who spend time in rigorous training, search missions, preventive instruction, and raising public awareness. Also provides an opportunity for folks interested in the outdoors and emergency medical services. Info: Molly Garland at .
Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad- These dedicated volunteers render assistance at accidents and other times of need, provide safety instruction in schools and help during flood, fire, hurricane, and famine. Members must have a minimum Virginia EMT Certification (valid EMT-Basic), be at least 18 years of age, commit at least 12 hours per week for two years, year 'round, including summers and holidays. Info: 296-4825.
Scottsville Volunteer Rescue Squad- Their mission: "To assist in the saving of life, administering first aid, and teaching methods of safety." Volunteer help always welcome: 286-3979 or
North Garden Volunteer Fire Company- These volunteers "protect our community and its inhabitants from fire, accident, or sickness." Info: 971-1583 or
East Rivanna Volunteer Fire Company- Based in Keswick. Apply for membership at ervfc.com or 293-6722
Scottsville Volunteer Fire Department- Open to the public, if you're interested in taking a look around. Visit or call 286-2841.
Stony Point Volunteer Fire Department- In addition to roaring off to accidents and putting out fires, they'll install your child's carseat if you want to make sure it's done right. Info: 973-7733 or spvfc.org.
–>> For Sports groups, see our Sports and Recreation section.
EDUCATIONAL
American Society for Quality- Provides opportunities for learning, quality improvement, and knowledge exchange. Meetings held the third Wednesday of each month at various times and locations. Info: Ray Schumin at .
American Society for Training and Development- This non-profit is devoted to helping people in the field of human resource development, or "personnel," as it used to be known. A $180 calendar year membership is available ($90 students). 1-800-628-2783.
APICS, Blue Ridge Chapter- The Association for Operations Management is a not-for-profit international educational organization that offers education and professional certification programs. Info: 974-2090.
Charlottesville-Albemarle Legal Staff Association- Membership is open to anyone involved in the legal working field. Meetings are held at various area restaurants on the third Tuesday of each month. Info: Deborah Johnson at 293-8191.
Computers4Kids- They do what the name implies: lend and give computers to kids. 817-1121
Jefferson Tibetan Society- To provide teaching and meditation practice in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, JTS meets on Wednesday evenings 7:30-9pm for prayer, meditation, and teaching. All sessions are held at the JTS Temple at 118 Olinda Drive near UVA. Other cultural and special events available throughout the year. 980-1752 or .
Blue Ridge Toastmasters Club- This world-wide group teaches communication and leadership skills that foster self-confidence and personal growth. Meets every Tuesday evening 7-8:45pm usually at the Northside Library (occasionally at the downtown library). 971-4741
Toastmasters Club of Vinegar Hill- Learn how to give scintillating speeches. Meetings are every Friday from noon to 1pm at the Albemarle County Office Building. $39 membership dues collected twice a year. .
Toastmasters of Piney Mountain- More speeches and scintillation– only this time in the Piney Mountain area. Weekly meetings Wednesday at 12:05pm in the Monticello Room of GE Faunc at 29N and Rt 606. Membership $35 twice a year. Info: Shawn Liao at .
–>>For Business groups, See our Economy section.
NATURE STUFF
Wintergreen Nature Foundation- Nature-lovers rejoice! This group offers guided hikes, all sorts of retreats, and much more. Visit twnf.org for a complete listing of events. 325-8169
The Charlottesville-Albemarle Council of Garden Clubs- Non-profit umbrella organization for local and county garden clubs. Contact information for local clubs at gardeninginvirginia.org/council.html.
Monticello Bird Club- Field trips and monthly meetings open to bird lovers of all experience levels. Meets the second Thursday of each month from September through June at 7:30pm at the Ivy Creek Natural Area Education Center. Details: Robyn Kells, 970-1044, , or Ron Kingston, 293-5173, .
Charlottesville Orchid Society- Meets monthly at 2pm on the second Sunday except in July and August; two shows annually, one on Easter weekend and one in late October. Info: Lawerence R. Eicher, 975-4231 or
Virginia Native Plant Society, Jefferson Chapter- "Dedicated to the protection and preservation of the native plants of Virginia and their habitats." How Jeffersonian! A $30 individual membership is available to the public and there are great group deals. 293-4217 or .
INTERNATIONAL
Friendship Force of Charlottesville- Bringing people of the world together through homestay exchanges.
International Center at the University of Virginia- Promotes intercultural experiences in Charlottesville and Albemarle County at the Lorna Sundberg International Center on University Circle near UVA. 924-7983
Ligmincha Institute- "Created to preserve the Tibetan Bön culture and teachings, especially the practices of dzogchen." Info: Lee Hartline at 977-6161.
L'Alliance Francaise de Charlottesville- A non-profit cultural and educational organization that fosters knowledge of France, its culture, and its language. Francophiles rejoice. Ten- or 12-week courses available every season; prices vary depending on types of membership and skill level. Info: Andree King, 973-8268.
POLITICAL
Republican Party of Virginia- Want to cane Kaine? All elephants welcome! Contact state party headquarters at 804-780-0111
Democratic Party of Virginia- Everything's more exciting with new donkey star Jim Webb. If you want to help keep the dems on top, call party headquarters at 804-644-1966.
Jefferson Area Libertarians- They're pro-choice... on everything. 996-5226
Central Virginia Greens- They're lean, green, tree-hugging machines. Call Jana Cutlip at 540-456-8555
American Reform Party of Virginia- Not to be confused with the AARP, the ARP wants to spice up two-party elections and make them a menage a trois... but with Ross Perot. Info: Bettyjean Kling at .
ALUMNI
University of Virginia Alumni Association- Join the proud tradition of giving money to Mr. Jefferson's university, and maybe you'll get something named after you like Cocke Hall, Slaughter Recreation Center, or "the Jack." Plus, you get a discount at UVA bookstore. What's not to love? 243-9000 or
UVA Club of Charlottesville- "To foster ongoing relationships between the University of Virginia and the local community of friends, alumni and employees of UVA through a series of educational, networking, athletic, charitable and sociable events." Info: Jaqueline Claudia at .
Piedmont Virginia Community College Alumni Association- Strange as it may seem, this group exists "to promote and further the educational objectives of Piedmont Virginia Community College." 961-5203
FRATERNAL SOCIEITIES
Aaron Royal Arch Chapter No. 1 Masonic Lodge- Contact .
Widow's Sons' Masonic Lodge- Over 200 years old, it's the oldest lodge continuing to serve the community. Monthly dinner meetings happen the third Monday of every month at 6pm at the meeting hall off the Downtown Mall, with official meeting procedures beginning at 7:30pm. Info: .
HISTORICAL
The Shire of Isenfir- The local chapter of the Society for Creative Anachronism, a non-profit organization dedicated to the study and selective re-creation of the Middle Ages and Renaissance. If you like dressing up in armor, and defending fair ladies, cross over the moat! Info: isenfir.org
Sons of the American Revolution, Thomas Jefferson Chapter- Dedicated to the patriotic, historical, and educational perpetuation of the memory of patriots who helped achieve the independence of the American colonies. Info: White McKenzie Wallenborn at 293-6779 or .
National Railway Historical Society, Rivanna Chapter- Members meet to wine, dine, and talk trains. They generally choo- choo- choose to meet at Ponderosa Steakhouse on the third Thursday of each month at 6pm. Info:
Preservation Piedmont- They're all for saving Charlottesville's rich architecutral history. To learn more, email or call president Brian Broadus at 882-0867.
Charlottesville Civil War Round Table- Tours and discussions keep Civil War history vital. Monthly meetings are the third Tuesday at JAG School (near UVA's law school) at 7pm; meet for a 5:30pm dinner at Wild Greens Resturant beforehand. Annual membership $25; for only $5 more ($30) you can bring along your spouse or even the whole family. Info: Barbara Wright, 295-9463 or
National Society Daughters of the American Revolution- God, Home and Country is what matters to these modern-day Betsy Rosses. Charlottesville has four chapters for descendants of those who "with unfailing loyalty aided in the cause of American Independence." Info:
Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society- They keep local history alive with exhibits and tours. Located on Second Street NE in the McIntire Building– the big brick building with the fancy portico near the Downtown Mall. 296-1492 or
HookTip
Whether you're new to town or a born-and-raised Charlottesvillian, take one of the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society's weekly walking tours of downtown, and you'll learn something. They leave from the McIntire Building every Saturday morning from April to October at 10am.
Sons of Confederate Veterans- These people are dedicated to seeing that the true history of the South is presented to future generations. Open to any friendly supporters or any males 12 years and older who can trace their ancestry to a Confederate soldier. Official membership is $40 per year, or be a friend or associate for just $20. Info: R.E. Lee Scouten at 293-3148.
Sons of Union Veterans- Charlottesville is right in the North-South line of fire. This group, part of the Maryland division, while not quite as popular or as well known in these parts, wants to recognize the boys in blue. Info: Eugene Mortorff at 717-259-9841for more information.
SUPPORT GROUPS
Central Virginia Chronic Fatigue/Fibromyalgia Association, Inc.- A support group for sufferers and their family. 984-3419
AIDS/HIV Services Group- A variety of educational and support services offered, regular meetings. 979-7714
Alcoholics Anonymous- Meets daily. 293-6565
Al-Anon/Alateen- Support for families and friends of alcoholics. For local meeting times and locations, visit va-al-anon.org.
Awareness of Body Image and Disordered Eating- 953-7220
Blue Ridge Family Alliance for the Mentally Ill- 970-1257
Charlottesville Parkinson's Disease Support Group- 982-4482
Compassionate Friends- Friendship and understanding for bereaved parents. Monthly meetings at 7pm on the fourth tuesday at the Church of Our Savior on Rio Road. 973-8844 or .
Families Anonymous- Support group for people who are experiencing conflict or pain as the result of a family member. Meets every Monday 7-8pm at Aldersgate United Methodist Church on Rio Road. 923-7929
Freedom From Smoking- Eight-week course for anyone trying to quit smoking. Nearest chapter in Waynesboro, 540-946-8023
Hospice of the Piedmont Bereavement Groups- For adults, children, and adolescents who have suffered the loss of a loved one. Contact Erin Webb at 817-6900 or .
La Leche League of Charlottesville- To promote breastfeeding and provide support for mothers. Weekly morning and evening meetings in Charlottesville Info: Adrienne, 984-4665.
Lupus Foundation of Virginia- For dealing with the disease. 804-270-1626
Mental Health Mondays- A public lecture series held every Monday on the Downtown Mall. 977-4673
Mental Wellness Mutual Support Group- Meeting the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. For all ages. 977-4673
National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Blue Ridge Chapter- 971-8010
Overeaters Anonymous- Available at many sites throughout Charlottesville, morning and evening times. 980-1777
Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays- 296-6747
Single Mothers' Support Group- Childcare provided at meetings. Registration required. 979-8888.
Sexual Assault Resource Agency (SARA)- Intervention and support for survivors of sexual assault. Hotline: 977-7273. Office: 295-7273.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly- Numerous healthy weight loss programs throughout the area. Info: Ruth Walker at 295-1435.
United Support- For men and women in abusive relationships. 293-2273
SINGLES CLUBS
Charlottesville Young Professionals-These folks want to create networking opportunities for young professionals in the Charlottesville area by organizing social, recreational, and community service events.
VARIOUS
Albemarle Amateur Radio Club- Radio buffs of all abilities are welcome at this organization's meetings the second Tuesday of every month at 7:30pm at the National Radio Astronomy Building on Edgemont Road. albemarleradio.org.
Albemarle Duplicate Bridge Club- For over 15 years a group of serious duplicate bridge players have met to play for fun at the Senior Center on Pepsi Place every Thursday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 2pm. $5 to play. Info: Paul Hartman, 973-2773.
Charlottesville Duplicate Bridge Club- For bridge lovers young and old. Meets every Wednesday at 12:30pm at the Church of the Incarnation on Incarnation Drive. Info: June Bare, 293-7302.
Charlottesville Black Professionals Group- A dynamic community of black professionals whose purpose is to network for professional advancement, participate in fun, social activities, and empower our local communities and future professional leaders by coordinating and participating in community events. Info: Tamika Allen, .
Blue Ridge Speedskating Club- Really put the metal to the ice with these recreational and competitive speedskaters of central Virginia. Info:
Central Virginia Parrot Head Club- Have you always searched for a way to help people while still drinking margaritas, wearing flip-flops, and listening to Jimmy Buffet? Welcome to paradise! This group aims to bring together in a social setting fans of Jimmy Buffett's music who also have a desire and willingness to pitch in for community service projects. Events include a Parrot-Head Happy Hour the first Thursday of every month at 5pm at– where else?– Cheesburger In Paradise. For the summer, the club also offers a social flocking the third Wednesday of every month at the Lazy Parrot Grill. Info: cvphc.com
Charlottesville Area Bicycling Alliance- Area bike traveling residents unite to promote the bicycle as good form of transportation. The club also strives to educate area planners about the bicycle and road needs of bikers. Info: Stephen Bach at .
Charlottesville Astronomical Society- Members of all knowledge levels enjoy the night sky. Meets the first Wednesday of every month at 6:45pm at the McCormick Observatory. Membership $30/person; $35/family. Info: .
Charlottesville Camera Club- Shutterbugs rejoice! Photographers of all skills and disciplines are welcome at this nonprofit organization that "fosters photography as an art, a hobby, or a vocation, by instruction and by sharing knowledge and experience." Meetings 6:30pm the second Tuesday of every month at Westminster Canterbury of the Blue Ridge on Pantops. Info:
Charlottesville Unix Users Group- A support group for Unix users of all dependencies, its monthly meetings are held at 7pm on the fourth Tuesday at the NRAO Auditorium on Edgemont Road. Free and open to the public. Info: .
Women's Voices Book Group- This one focuses on women's issues, but is not exclusive to women writers. Meetings held the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7pm at Barnes & Noble in the Barracks Road Shopping Center. Info: Sheila Hazen at 971-6786.
Central Virginia Genealogical Association- Trace those roots! Visitors are always welcome at this organization's meetings, which are usually the second Saturday of the month at 1:30pm in the basement of Union Bank and Trust at the corner of Rt. 29N and Rio Road. Info from Andy Emert at [email protected].
Blue Ridge Inventors' Club- "To help people profit from their creative work" and "to inform members about patents, copyrights, and trademarks." Members get info from the US Patent and Trademark Office. Meets the third Wednesday of every month at the Glass Building on Second Street SE at 6pm. (Dinner provided with small donation, formal meeting begins at 7pm.) Don't let The Man steal your genius. Info: Richard Britton, 973-2648.
Bead Society of Greater Charlottesville- That's right, beading enthusiasts, there's a group for you here, too. Meetings held at St. Mark's Lutheran's Church at the corner of US Rt. 250 and Alderman Road at 7pm the second Wednesday of the month. Info: .
Monticello Needle Arts- These embroidery gurus will have you in stiches in no time. Meets the third Monday of each month at 7pm at Broadus Memorial Baptist Church on Rt. 20N, unless otherwise announced. "Educational and cultural development" through sewing. avenue.org/mnega/
Rivanna Radio Control Club- These guys fly radio-controlled gliders from Milton Field (southeast of town) and occasionally invite the public to watch. The field is open to club members every day from 9am to dusk, and is often full during the weekends and early summer evening hours. Meetings held second Thursday of every month at 7:30pm in the Glenmore Fire Station. Info: Cam White or Joe Teccariche at
Virginia Angora Goat and Mohair Association- The name says it all. Maaaaaticulous website. Don't be sheepish; if it behooves you, call Charles Bodie at 540-463-2808.
American Society of Landscape Architects, Virginia Chapter- Encourages ethical and ecologically minded landscaping. Membership info: 757-412-2664 or .
Neon Guild- Technology professionals swap information and advice. Includes free pizza, beer, and soft drinks. Meets at various locations about once a month on a Monday evening from 6 to 8pm. Email or call 923-9524.
Forest Way Insight Meditation Group- Buddhist retreats encompassing vipassana (insight meditation) and metta (loving-kindness meditation). Beginners welcome. 990-9300 or visit forestway.org.
Charlottesville Swing Dance Society- All aspiring flappers and hepcats can get their swing on at various locations and times weekly and monthly. Lessons are available; annual membership$15. Info: cvilleswingdance.com or call the dance hotline at 980-2744 or email .
The American Legion- Our local outfit of the world's largest veterans service organization. Charlottesville's Post 74 meets the second Wednesday of every month to eat dinner and discuss Legion business. Social hour at 6pm, dinner at 6:30pm, official business at 7:30. Info: .
Party Parade- Soon to be celebrating 20 years of gettin' down for charity, these revelers meet weekly February through May. All proceeds benefit local organizations. Info: .
Thomas Jefferson Area United Way- The area's most ginormous umbrella charity. Their website BeAVolunteer.info is a helpful resource on how you can voluteer your time and effort in a way that fits both your talents and schedule. 972-1701 or
Charlotesville-Albemarle Community Foundation- The homier, more intimate ginormous umbrella charity. 296-1024 or
AARP Charlottesville-Albemarle Chapter No. 192- The chapter meets the first Thursday of each month at 11:30am at Ponderosa Steakhouse except in July and August. 1-888-687-2277 or aarp.org
Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic- So that all people might have access to the printed word. 293-4797
Benevolent Protective Order of the Elks No. 389- Sort of a country club (it has a pool with an excellent swim team) along with lotsa bingo and an occasional Brunswick Stew! 296-6015 or
Virginians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty- Do much more than just watch the Green Mile or Dead Man Walking. 960-7779
#