Planned Parenthood volunteers had an eventful June, with more great work coming up this summer. There's still time to join us! Check out the awesome things Planned Parenthood volunteers do!
Pride St. Charles
Pride month kicked off with flying colors at the Pride Festival in St. Charles. Attendance was in record numbers, drawing in many enthusiastic Planned Parenthood supporters. Volunteers spoke to attendees about health services, LGBTQIA resources, gave out Safer Sex Kits, and spread awareness about how to be an advocate. Overall, Planned Parenthood collected around 550 petitions, 100 more than the original goal, and raised more than $100 in cash donations.
Metro East Pride Fest
Planned Parenthood attended the Metro East Pride Fest in downtown Belleville. Twenty volunteers showed up to help pass out health service information, volunteering information, and free goodies including safer sex kits. The awesome volunteers also collected 800 “I Stand with Planned Parenthood" petitions! Planned Parenthood is proud to support our community in Illinois and looks forward to future outreach there.
PrideFest St. Louis and Tower Grove Pride
Pride month ended with a bang at the Downtown St. Louis and Tower Grove festivals. Planned Parenthood gathered 2,732 petitions in support and raised $500 in donations. Volunteers passed out Safer Sex kits, dental dams, and swag items, which were a hit!
2019 Health and Wellness Taste of Vegan Festival
On June 8, the Taste of Vegan Festival was a hit with the amazing volunteers and community members. Volunteers were busy handing out health services information, free giveaways, and safer sex kits. The event also featured local artists, health organizations, and food vendors. The day was geared toward how to lead a healthy lifestyle. Attendees could participate in yoga, dancing, and drum fitness while also enjoying some delicious vegan food and desserts!
Fiesta in Florissant
Planned Parenthood joined forces with the Hispanic Festival Inc of Greater St. Louis to table at Fiesta in Florissant, a two-day celebration of the vibrant Hispanic community in St. Louis and Florissant. There, volunteers and interns spoke to attendees about our health services and ways to take action. We handed out resources in both English and Spanish as well as keychains, magnets, and sunglasses.
Volunteer of the Month
Each month, Planned Parenthood highlights one outstanding volunteer. This month's Volunteer of the Month is Victoria Blankenship. Read our Q & A below to learn more about Victoria and her experience with volunteering!
Q: Why is it important for you to volunteer at Planned Parenthood of the St. Louis Region?
Planned Parenthood is a vital resource for many in our community. I believe in access to safe, affordable health care for all. By volunteering, I know I am doing my part to challenge systematic oppression in Missouri and the flawed policies that contribute to health care inequality.
Q: Do you have a favorite volunteer experience with Planned Parenthood?
I had such a fun time tabling at Arch Rival Roller Derby’s Championship night! I got to advocate reproductive rights and chat with people in my community, all while cheering on my favorite teams!
Q: What else would you like to share about volunteering with Planned Parenthood?
Every time I volunteer with PP, I know I am helping women find agency and choice around their sexual health. This, in turn, has helped me feel more empowered to speak my own truth. I also want others to know it is easy and fun to get involved. There is a place for everyone. And call your representatives! Your voice matters!
Upcoming Events and Volunteer Opportunities
Check out some of our upcoming events below! Keep up-to-date and sign up for opportunities to volunteer out in the community. If you have any questions about Planned Parenthood volunteer programs or this newsletter, please contact Brenda Suhan at [email protected] or 314-531-7526 ext. 358.
July 20 Frizz Fest
Tower Grove Park, MO
July 20 African Community Health Fair 2019
St. Louis, MO
July 27 Galilee Baptist Church Annual Community Health Fair
St. Louis, MO
July 28 St. Charles Borromeo Parish 2019 Community Health Fair
St. Charles, MO
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