Assist in the packing and distribution of food packs for students and families in need. Volunteers will work alongside students in the district’s STEP program, helping them gain vocational skills while supporting the community.

The City of Wyoming is seeking quality people who want to serve their community. The fire department is now accepting applications for paid on call firefighters. WFD provides Fire and Rescue and First Responder coverage for all of Wyoming. Paid-on-call fire department. Receive an hourly wage when responding to calls and drills. Retirement available with +10 years of service. Training on Monday nights. | Requirements: Must live/work in the City of Wyoming and within 8 minutes of the Wyoming Fire Station located at 26885 Forest Blvd. - 18 years old or older with a valid MN driver’s license - High school diploma or equivalent -Pass a criminal background check and driver’s license record check -Pass physical agility test | Categories: Firefighter

Volunteers are needed to support various events such as fundraising, social events, and lake treatments. Volunteers will have support for any function but can also lead and run complete projects.

Assist with feeding and grooming horses at the rescue. Volunteers will help maintain the health and well-being of the horses through regular feeding and grooming routines.

Provide general maintenance and handy work around the horse rescue facility. Volunteers will assist with repairs and upkeep to ensure the facility remains operational and safe.

Help with cleaning stalls and sheds to ensure a clean and safe environment for the horses. Volunteers will be responsible for mucking out stalls and maintaining cleanliness in the horse living areas.

Assist with organizing and executing fundraising events, parades, and horse and pony rides. Volunteers will help with planning and promoting events to support the rescue's mission.

Assist the Big Marine Lake Association in monitoring and controlling aquatic invasive species. Volunteers will help with on-the-water efforts and contribute to the organization's advocacy goals.

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES To protect life and property through fire suppression, medical aid, public education, inspections, and other fire prevention duties. Serves under the direction of the Deputy Public Safety Director-Fire Services, Deputy Fire Chief, and other public safety supervisors. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS 1. Responds to emergency and non-emergency incidents as a firefighter and emergency medical responder. 2. Performs firefighting activities, including driving fire apparatus, operating pumps and related equipment, laying hose, and other related tasks. 3. Responds to calls for emergency medical services, and renders first aid. 4. Maintains fire equipment and apparatus in accordance with department standards. 5. Completes reports, forms, and data entry into fire record management system and other related databases. 6. Works with local, state, and federal agencies. 7. Assists in conducting fire investigations as needed. 8. Assists with fire prevention and safety education efforts. 9. Participates in public safety training and meetings. 10. Performs other job related duties as apparent or assigned. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 1.Knowledge, proficiency, and accuracy in the use of computer applications and software, including Microsoft Office Suite (word processing, spreadsheet and power point presentations). 2. Strong verbal and written communication skills. 3. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with all City staff, elected officials, and the general public. 4. Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with supervisors, co-workers, and the general public. 5. Ability to work independently and to prioritize work. 6. Knowledge of fire services procedures and practices. 7. Ability to maintain confidential and sensitive information. 8. Ability to work varied hours to attend meetings and accomplish the mission of the Public Safety Department | Requirements: REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent. • Must have a valid Minnesota driver’s license. • Entry level firefighter position, no experience necessary. • Must successfully pass a background investigation, physical, psychological examination, and a one-year probationary period. • Must be able to pass an annual physical examination. • Ability to obtain the following certifications upon hire: Firefighter I & II, Hazardous Material Operational Certification, and Emergency Medical Responder (EMR). | Categories: Firefighter, EMT

City of Hugo is seeking quality people who want to serve their community. The fire department is now accepting applications for paid on call firefighters. HFD provides Fire and Rescue coverage for all of Hugo. Part-time/paid-on-call fire department. Receive an hourly wage when responding to calls and drills. Competitive retirement with +10 years of service.Training on Tuesday nights. Information session on August 12th 2015 from 6pm-9pm | Requirements: -Must live in the City of Hugo and within 5 minutes of the Fire Station located on 140th St. west of HW61. - 18 years old or older with a valid MN driver’s license - High school diploma or equivalent -Pass a criminal background check and driver’s license record check -Pass physical agility test | Categories: Firefighter

Do you work at home? Are you around during the day? Then we would like to talk to you! The Hugo Fire department is looking to hire day-time available firefighters! | Requirements: Live within a 6 minute response time to the Hugo Fire Station Able to complete fire department sponsored training within 2 years of hire available during the day to respond to calls for service | Categories: Firefighter

The City of Scandia is seeking quality people who want to serve their community. The fire department is now accepting applications for paid on call firefighters. Scandia Fire provides Fire and Rescue coverage for all of Scandia and a portion of May Township. Part-time/paid-on-call fire department. Receive an hourly wage when responding to calls and drills. Competitive retirement with +5 years of service. | Requirements: Must live within 8 driving minutes of the Fire Station located on 15040 Scandia Trail- Must be18 years old or older with a valid MN driver’s license - High school diploma or equivalent -Pass a criminal background check and driver’s license record check -Must pass physical agility test. Must be certified as FF I and EMT-B, or be willing to commit to city paid training to that level within 2 years. Must respond to 20% of calls. | Categories: Firefighter, EMT

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES To protect life and property through fire suppression, medical aid, public education, inspections, and other fire prevention duties. Serves under the direction of the Deputy Public Safety Director-Fire Services, Deputy Fire Chief, and other public safety supervisors. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS 1. Responds to emergency and non-emergency incidents as a firefighter and emergency medical responder. 2. Performs firefighting activities, including driving fire apparatus, operating pumps and related equipment, laying hose, and other related tasks. 3. Responds to calls for emergency medical services, and renders first aid. 4. Maintains fire equipment and apparatus in accordance with department standards. 5. Completes reports, forms, and data entry into fire record management system and other related databases. 6. Works with local, state, and federal agencies. 7. Assists in conducting fire investigations as needed. 8. Assists with fire prevention and safety education efforts. 9. Participates in public safety training and meetings. 10. Performs other job related duties as apparent or assigned. The following job functions are intended to illustrate various types of work performed and are not all inclusive. The job description is subject to change as the needs of the employer change. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES 1. Knowledge, proficiency, and accuracy in the use of computer applications and software, including Microsoft Office Suite (word processing, spreadsheet and power point presentations). 2. Strong verbal and written communication skills. 3. Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with all City staff, elected officials, and the general public. 4. Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships with supervisors, co-workers, and the general public. 5. Ability to work independently and to prioritize work. 6. Knowledge of fire services procedures and practices. 7. Ability to maintain confidential and sensitive information. 8. Ability to work varied hours to attend meetings and accomplish the mission of the Public Safety Department. | Requirements: REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent. • Must have a valid Minnesota driver’s license. • Entry level firefighter position, no experience necessary. • Must successfully pass a background investigation, physical, psychological examination, and a one-year probationary period. • Must be able to pass an annual physical examination. • Ability to obtain the following certifications upon hire: Firefighter I & II, Hazardous Material Operational Certification, and Emergency Medical Responder (EMR). | Categories: EMT, Firefighter

Volunteers are needed to help clean the barns at Farmaste Animal Sanctuary in Lindstrom, MN. This task occurs every Saturday morning and typically lasts 2-3 hours. Volunteers must be at least 12 years old, and those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Contribute your professional skills such as photography, graphic design, or writing to support Farmaste's mission. Contact the sanctuary to discuss how your talents can be utilized.

Assist with caring for farm animals during opening and closing at the sanctuary. Tasks include feeding, stall cleaning, and observing animal behavior. Volunteers must be 18 or older and commit to a weekly shift for a minimum of 12 months.

Participate in various event-related volunteer opportunities at the sanctuary. Volunteers must be at least 12 years old, and those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Keep an eye on social media and the website for specific opportunities.

The firefighter works under the direction of Company Officers and the Fire Chief to mitigate the risks of injury and death due to natural and man-made emergencies. This is an "on-call" position assigned to one of three fire stations | Requirements: Must live within 10 minutes from an East bethel Fire station. Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a High School Diploma or GED. Must meet the physical and mental requirements. Must have a satisfactory criminal history and a valid MN Drivers license | Categories: Firefighter, EMT

The firefighter works under the direction of Company Officers and the Fire Chief to mitigate the risks of injury and death due to natural and man-made emergencies. This is an "on-call" position assigned to one of three fire stations. The firefighter car | Requirements: Must live within 8 minutes from an Andover Fire station. Must be at least 18 years old. Must have a High School Diploma or GED. Must meet the physical and mental requirements. Must have a satisfactory criminal history and a valid MN Drivers licens | Categories: EMT, Firefighter

We’re looking for a volunteer to take photos of the pre-and post-event, artists, attendees, and capture the overall atmosphere of the art crawl. Photos will be used for future promotions.

Be the friendly face that welcomes guests to the event! Greeters will provide maps, answer questions, and help create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

We are seeking an organized and enthusiastic individual to help coordinate our amazing team of volunteers. Responsibilities include recruiting, scheduling, communicating, and ensuring a smooth volunteer experience leading up to, during, and after the event.

Help keep the art crawl running smoothly! Tasks may include aiding with setup and takedown, directing attendees, supporting participants, and providing general event assistance.

The Center City Fire Department is seeking quality individuals who want to serve their community. The fire department is now accepting applications for volunteer Firefighters/Emergency Medical Responders. CCFD provides Fire and Rescue as well as Medical Emergency coverage for the city of Center City and parts of the Chisago Lake and Franconia Townships. No previous firefighter training is required, we will train you to our requirements within the 1st year. Our regularly scheduled training takes place on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month. We are especially looking for individuals who could respond to day time calls. | Requirements: Must be 18 years of age and live or work within 8 minutes of the fire station. Valid Drivers license and ability to pass a criminal background check and driver’s license record check. | Categories: Firefighter

Support the school by assisting with administrative tasks, organizing materials, and helping with event preparation. Your contribution will help the school run smoothly and efficiently.

Assist in hosting classes by helping with setup, welcoming participants, and ensuring a smooth class experience. This role is essential in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for learners.

Volunteers assist with adult or children's programs and events, fundraising, serving on the board, community education, storytimes, book clubs, and more. Volunteers receive email messages for opportunities to assist with library programs.

Volunteers are responsible for staffing the library during open hours, which includes checking in and shelving returned items, checking out materials, light cleaning, answering questions, and providing help with software and the catalog. Volunteers work in three-hour shifts and attend an initial training session.

respond to fires and other emergencies regularly as assigned, faithfully perform any work of the department as specified promote good relations with other firefighters, as well as the public, and to mote the best welfare of the department. Active participation in emergency/routine calls, meetings, training, fire prevention, and work details. Maintenance and care of equipment, apparatus and building. Awareness and adherence to the Department Regulations, Supplemental Rules, Standard Operating Guidelines, and Policies. Maintain their physical fitness level to perform their function as a firefighter and all the duties that are required of all firefighters, Maintain driver’s licenses as per City policy to operate Fire Department vehicles. Must maintain First Responder certification or better. | Requirements: Response time of less than 10 minutes to a Ham Lake Fire Station High School Graduate or GED Complete in 10 minutes or less a fitness-ability test Complete a non-timed ladder climb Acceptable results of the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension background check Must be 18 or older | Categories: Firefighter

respond to fires and other emergencies regularly as assigned, faithfully perform any work of the department as specified promote good relations with other firefighters, as well as the public, and to mote the best welfare of the department. Active participation in emergency/routine calls, meetings, training, fire prevention, and work details. Maintenance and care of equipment, apparatus and building. Awareness and adherence to the Department Regulations, Supplemental Rules, Standard Operating Guidelines, and Policies. Maintain their physical fitness level to perform their function as a firefighter and all the duties that are required of all firefighters, Maintain driver’s licenses as per City policy to operate Fire Department vehicles. Must maintain First Responder certification or better. | Requirements: Response time of less than 10 minutes to a Ham Lake Fire Station High School Graduate or GED Complete in 10 minutes or less a fitness-ability test Complete a non-timed ladder climb Acceptable results of the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension background check Must be 18 or older | Categories: Firefighter

We have immediate openings for the position of firefighter/EMT. This is a paid "on-call" position offered only to local residents who are able to quickly respond to a fire station within our service area of Lino Lakes, Circle Pines, and Centerville. All training and equipment is provided. The current pay rate ranges from $11.50-12.50 per hour plus $4500 per year into a retirement plan. We are looking for positive people who can make a long-term commitment to serve our communities. This position will require from you an average of 25 hours per month at any given hour. All candidates will have to complete an application form in order to be considered for the position, and will be subjected to a criminal background review prior to appointment. You must be at least 18 years old to apply. Applications are in the foyer of our administrative office at Station2 (7741 Lake Drive, Lino Lakes). Go to our website www.centennialfire.org for more info. If you want to become part of a progressive team who works to provide quality service to the community, this is the place! | Requirements: 1. High school diploma or equivalent. 2. Minnesota driver's license. 3. 18+ years old. 4. Live within 8 minutes of a fire station. You are not required to live in Centerville, Circle Pines, or Lino Lakes. 5. Be able to respond to 25% of the calls at your station. | Categories: Firefighter, EMT

The Centennial Fire District has immediate openings for the position of Firefighter/EMT. This is a paid “on-call” position offered only to those who are able to respond within 5 minutes to our fire station in Circle Pines. All training and equipment is provided. The current pay rate ranges from $10.00-$13.25 per hour plus $5000 per year into a retirement plan. We are looking for positive people who can make a long-term commitment to serve our communities. This position will require from you an average of 25 hours per month at any given hour. All candidates will have to complete an application form in order to be considered for the position and will be subjected to a criminal background & psychological review prior to appointment. You must be at least 18 years old to apply. More information can be found by going to our website at www.centennialfire.org . If you want to become part of a progressive team who works to provide quality service to the community, this is the place! | Requirements: All candidates will have to complete an application form in order to be considered for the position and will be subjected to a criminal background & psychological review prior to appointment. You must be at least 18 years old to apply. | Categories: Firefighter, EMT

Join us to help preserve our land legacy through activities such as brush clearing, fence maintenance, invasive plant and tree removal, and general cleanup. Volunteers should bring appropriate field gear such as gloves, eye protection, and drinking water.

Join our team as a member of the Board of Directors. Help guide the strategic direction of Bear Care and ensure we continue to provide essential health services to children and adolescents in the district.

Join the White Bear Lake Music Boosters to support the music programs in the district. Volunteers assist with fundraising, event organization, and providing resources to music directors and students.

Engage with local businesses and residents to promote downtown White Bear Lake initiatives. Volunteers will distribute flyers, gather feedback, and support community engagement efforts.

Assist with organizing and managing community events in downtown White Bear Lake. Volunteers will help with event setup, coordination, and ensuring a smooth experience for attendees.

Help address food insecurity by creating raised garden beds in backyards. Volunteers assist in building and maintaining these gardens, fostering community relationships.

Participate in building affordable homes in partnership with other area churches. Volunteers work on projects overseen by professional Habitat for Humanity staff.

Volunteers serve at the food shelf, packing foods for school-aged children and assisting adults with shopping at the food shelf site.

Mentor elementary school-aged children in the White Bear Lake School District. Volunteers tutor and provide companionship to students in need.

Help with the preparation and serving of the Pancake Breakfast. Duties include cooking, serving food, and maintaining cleanliness in the dining area.

Assist with organizing and managing the parking for the Car & Motorcycle Show. Help ensure that all vehicles are parked in designated areas and assist attendees with parking directions.

Assist with the aviation experience segment of the event. Duties include guiding attendees, providing information about the aircraft, and ensuring safety protocols are followed.

Assist in organizing and managing various fundraising events such as Pho Donation Events, Dance Lessons, and Karaoke Singing Events. Volunteers will help with event setup, coordination, and participant engagement.

Participate in hands-on work for the annual fundraising event or assist with mailings. No special knowledge or experience is required.

Assist with social media or other digital work such as design, updating the website, and clerical work. This role requires some computer knowledge and can be done remotely.

Volunteers are needed to do various household services for older adults 60 years of age and older in Anoka County. Tasks include housekeeping, minor home repairs, and seasonal chores such as lawn mowing, lawn clean-up, and snow removal.

Volunteers are needed in a variety of areas, including in the classroom, office, and as bus monitors for the Head Start program in Anoka and Washington County.

Volunteers are needed to answer phones, refer clients to resources, and work on clerical projects for the Senior Information Line. Training is provided.

Volunteers provide assistance and friendship to isolated or homebound seniors throughout Anoka County. Services include companionship, outings, running errands, and providing medical and non-medical transportation.

Ready to volunteer at a student event in the 2024/2025 school year? We'd love to have you! We'll provide training and lunch. Can't make it for the whole day but still want to help out? No problem, just let us know what works for you!

SBM FC History: Near the closing of 2007, Nyle Zikmund, SBMFD Fire Chief (Ret.), went with his instincts that the individuals of Spring Lake Park, Blaine, and Mounds View were interested in supporting the fire department with their time and talent. That instinct was the beginning of SBM Fire Corps. Planning began with posters placed in local businesses, articles in local papers, and letters sent to retired firefighters and participants from the Citizens Academy. This attracted engineers, homemakers, insurance agents, land surveyors, legal secretaries, 911 dispatchers, photographers, salesmen, and many others. These individuals range in age, ability, time, and talent. Common to all was their desire to make a difference in their community. An orientation meeting took place in January 2008 with the goal of attracting five individuals. Upon completion of the interviews, SBM had 24 Fire Corps members. Currently: The minimum requirements for members of SBM Fire Corps includes regular attendance at monthly meetings and an achievable number of service hours per month. Fire Corps members assist in mailings, data entry, grounds care of the stations, safety camps, bike helmet fittings, demonstrations, safety fairs, photography, neighborhood canvassing, grant writing, parades, station tours, trainings, and more. The enthusiasm and experience you bring to the department is exciting. One can only begin to imagine the height which will be reached with this group of individuals over the course of time. | Requirements: Purpose: To aid the department’s non-operational activities and to allow first responders to focus their efforts on being prepared for and responding to the most critical life-threatening situations. This position supports multiple areas and categories. Coverage: Various flexible daytime, evening, and weekend hours. Department Contact: Ashley Krepsky, Community Relations Chief / 763-786-4336 Qualifications: • Must be at least 16 years of age • Must possess a valid Minnesota Driver’s license. • Ability to read and understand fire department training materials. • Must not use tobacco products and agree not to start using tobacco products while a member of the fire department. • Must have a working phone number and email capability. Responsibilities: • Attend monthly meetings • Log a minimum of 25 volunteer hours per quarter. • Represent the department in a professional manner. Competencies: • Complete basic training and shadow different events and programs. • Complete probation period consisting of 12 months. Training: • General orientation by the Community Relations Specialist. • Specific job training, shadowing, and tour of department. • Department meetings | Categories: Fire Corps

The SBM Fire Department is seeking committed, professional adults to fulfill Duty Crew firefighter positions at several of our stations. There are immediate openings for both day and night firefighting positions as well as weekends. If you believe you are a hardworking team player – join the trusted few. Firefighting is a unique, challenging, and rewarding way to serve the community and help those in need. No previous experience is necessary All training and equipment will be provided Excellent pension program provided upon retirement If you are over 18 years of age and feel this calling is for you. Please contact Natalie Streich at nstreich@sbmfire.org or 763-767-4003 for more information. Additional resources can be found at our website www.sbmfire.org. | Requirements: 18 years of age A valid Drivers License High School Diploma or equivalent Live within a verified response time to 1 of our 4 stations | Categories: Firefighter

Join us in shaping the future of our community's literary hub by supporting our library's vital programs and services. Whether you're a book lover, tech whiz, event planner, or fundraising guru, there's a place for you to make a difference.

Work with local organizations to build partnerships and support networks for families affected by Down syndrome.

Moderate online support groups, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for parents of children with Down syndrome.

Engage with potential donors to secure major gifts, supporting the mission and activities of DSDN.

Assist users with navigating and troubleshooting the DSDN app, providing support and guidance to ensure a smooth user experience.

Master Gardeners will be at the New Brighton Farmers Market from June until October to answer garden questions, talk about new gardening best practices, and hear gardening stories from the community.

Assist in distributing fresh produce, frozen food, dry food, and household items to families in need. Volunteers will work with The Food Group to ensure efficient distribution and support community members.

Educate and inform individuals and families about the SNAP program. Assist with screening, applications, and post-application follow-up to help community members access food resources.

Volunteers are needed to help serve a hot meal outside every week, year-round, to those in need. This role involves preparing and distributing meals to the homeless community in Minneapolis.

Provide a break for someone who is caring for a child or adult with a disability, chronic illness or frailty in Washington County. You may engage in activities such as discussing past and present events, reading, solving puzzles, watching movies, and playing games.

Assist in maintaining the PACIM library by organizing books, managing appointments, and ensuring the library is welcoming for visitors. This role is ideal for those who love books and want to contribute to the cultural preservation of Polish-American heritage.

Participate in staffing events organized by PACIM. Volunteers will help with event setup, guest assistance, and ensuring the smooth operation of events. This is a great opportunity to meet new people and engage with the community.

Participate in one of our workgroups to help with local projects, programs, and events aimed at making Stillwater green, sustainable, and resilient. Workgroups focus on various areas such as energy, transportation, and environment.

Guide Bhutanese refugees and immigrants in their career journey by providing mentorship and sharing professional experiences to help them succeed in Minnesota.

Assist in planning and organizing community events that celebrate Bhutanese culture and foster community integration.

Volunteer your time to tutor Bhutanese refugees and immigrants in English as a Second Language, helping them improve their language skills and integrate into the community.

Help transport community members to essential services and events, ensuring they have access to necessary resources and opportunities.

The Fridley Fire Division is seeking community minded volunteers to begin our Fire Corps program. Applicants may perform non-emergency roles including but not limited to: photography, data entry, grant writing, social media management, public education, CPR instruction, training support, and EMS coverage. | Requirements: Applicants must be 18 years of age with at least a high school diploma. Able to pass a criminal background check, have reliable transportation with a valid MN Drivers License. | Categories: Fire Corps

Volunteer your time and talents to assist with events and activities such as dancing, cooking, crafts, snowshoeing, and playing video games. Volunteers can also help with event planning, fundraising, and administrative tasks. Volunteers under 15 must be accompanied by an adult, and those under 18 require a referral.

Teach a virtual class on the benefits of growing native plants, including how to identify native species and design, install, and maintain a native plant garden.

Assist residents at Fix-It Clinics by providing guided assistance to disassemble, troubleshoot, and fix small household appliances, clothing, electronics, and plants.

Assist with garden and building maintenance, help in the dining room, answer call-lights for non-care tasks, or deliver newspapers. This role supports the daily operations and enhances the living environment for residents.

Assist residents by escorting them to and from various locations within the community, such as beauty salon appointments, chapel services, or off-campus outings. This role involves propelling wheelchairs and ensuring residents' comfort and safety during transit.

Provide social connection and companionship to residents seeking interaction. This may include visiting with residents, engaging in conversation, or bringing a pet along for visits to enhance the experience.

Help lead activities and assist residents in participating in activities that may be challenging for them to do independently. This includes performing basic manicures and facilitating engaging experiences for residents.

Assist in managing and delivering essential supplies for pet disaster relief, including fans, lighting, generators, cleaning supplies, and animal care items. Help set up co-location shelters for people and their pets during emergencies.

Participate in various projects requiring special expertise, such as volunteer management and set building. If you have talents in these areas, your skills will be put to good use.

Assist in the production of 'A Night of Romantic Comedy' by joining the stage crew. Roles include Assistant Director, Stage Manager, and crew hands. No experience necessary as training will be provided.

Volunteers play an integral role in our efforts to restore safety, dignity, and hope in the lives of children who have been rescued from sexual exploitation. We are always in need of dentists, therapists, lawyers, tutors, and many more professionals to help our children and young people nationwide.

Assist with a Donation Day by greeting families and cleaning equipment. Your time contribution makes a difference in helping children receive the adaptive equipment they need.

Help with outreach efforts to spread the word about The Cole Foundation's services. Engage with the community to raise awareness and support for children with special needs.

Serve on a committee to help The Cole Foundation with its mission. Engage in planning and decision-making processes to support children with special needs.

Assist with organizing and running events for The Cole Foundation. Your support will help raise funds and awareness for children with special needs.