The Merrill Area United Way embarked on a new endeavor in 2014 with the opening of the Community Warming Center. This project was taken on with the expectation that it would operate with volunteers to serve at the Community Warming Center helping our guests that stay with us overnight. Barb Ziemer stepped forward and has been invaluable in coordinating the volunteers and assisting with the Community Warming Center.
“In the month of January six key volunteers have stepped down due to family medical issues, job transfers and changes in employment. This has put a real strain on the Warming Center,” said Merrill Area United Way Director Dee Olsen. “It should be made clear that we have been open every evening since Nov. 1, with the exception of three nights.”
The warming center typically only has one or two guests per night.
“The Warming Center is running very smoothly and we have not had any incidents of any sort,” Olsen said.
The Merrill Area United Way is putting out a plea for additional volunteers to serve on any of the three shifts, but particularly the second and third shift: The Volunteer Shifts are every night: 1st shift- 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.; 2nd shift- 11 p.m. until 4 a.m.; and 3rd shift- 4-8 a.m. Volunteer training is available for all volunteers. If interest in serving the community in this capacity, please contact Barb Ziemer at 715-218-0231,