ENTERTAINMENT

FREE PASTORIUS PARK CONCERTS continue with Phil Roy on July 13 and Alligator Zydeco on July 20, both at 7:30 p.m. The park is at Abington Avenue and Lincoln Drive; rainplace is Springside School, 8000 W. Cherokee St. 215-248-8810.

FREEDOM FILM FESTIVAL will take place Friday-Sunday, July 15, 16, and 17 at the Stagecrafters, 8130 Germantown Ave. Independent films from around the world will be shown, including full features, short films, documentaries, animations, student films. On July 16, there will be a special screening of the classic Alfred Hitchcock film, North By Northwest. Tickets are $5 and $7. www.FreedomFilmFestival.com.

CONCERT ON THE LAWN AT HOPE LODGE will feature Point Blank, a 5-member band, on Wednesday, July 20 at 7 p.m. 553 Bethlehem Pike, Ft. Washington. Bring a picnic, lawn chair or blanket. $4, adults; $3, seniors 60+; $2, youth 6-17; free for children 5 and under and members. 215-646-1595.

FREE PASTORIUS PARK CONCERTS continue with Alligator Zydeco on July 20 and Jump City Jazz on July 27, both at 7:30 p.m. The annual police & firefighters picnic is on July 27. The park is at Abington Avenue and Lincoln Drive; rainplace is Springside School, 8000 W. Cherokee St. 215-248-8810.

TRANESTOP COMMUNITY JAZZ CONCERT, this year a musical tribute to trumpeter Lee Morgan, will be on Sunday, July 31 at 2 p.m. at Felicia’s Gardens, 500 E. Washington Lane. Free. 215-438-3178 or thetranestop@comcast.net.

NORTH BY NORTHWEST: Friday, July 22, Deb Callahan & Feel; Saturday, July 23, Zydeco-a-Go-Go; Friday, July 29, BD Mylo & the Go Daddys. Times and cover charges vary. Jazz Jam will take place every first Tuesday at 8 p.m. (no cover). Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. are for Salsa. 7105 Germantown Ave., Mt. Airy. www.nxnwphl.com or 215-248-1000.

FALSTAFF will be presented by the Delaware Valley Opera Company on July 21 & 23 at 8 p.m. at the Hermitage Mansion, Henry Avenue & Hermit Lane in Roxborough. Tickets: 215-725-4171 or www.dvopera.org.

FREE JAZZ CONCERTS will be held this summer in Germantown’s Vernon Park, on Germantown Ave. above Chelten Ave. Saturday, July 23, Monette Sudler Group. All concerts 4-7 p.m. If rain sites are needed the age limit is 21 and older, and the concert will be at Morgan’s Club, 17 East Price St., 215-844-4100. 215-849-4873 or e-mail gtnssd@covad.net.

KESWICK THEATRE: Thursday, July 21, Get The Led Out (Led Zeppelin tribute); Friday, July 22, New Voices of Comedy; Sunday, July 24, 3rd Annual Christian Comedy Show; Wednesday, July 27, Russ Freeman & The Rippingtons; Thursday, July 28, Lee Greenwood & Crystal Gayle. Times and ticket prices vary. The summer series for kids is running now. The theater is at Keswick Avenue and Easton Road, Glenside. 215-572-7650 or www.keswicktheatre.com.

PIANIST & COMPOSER RICH RUDIN AND VOCALIST ZAN GARDNER will be performing at North by Northwest on Tuesdays, July 26 and August 23; at Maria's Italian Ristorante, 8100 Ridge Ave., on Fridays, July 29 & August 26; and at Rembrandt's, 741 N. 23rd St., on Thursday, Aug. 4, 8-11:30 p.m., 215-763-2228. No cover charges. 215-848-8353 or RichRudin@verizon.net.

THE MANN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS is again offering a full summer of exciting entertainment. Tickets are available at the Mann Center Box Office at 52nd and Parkside or charge by phone at 215-893-1999. www.manncenter.org.

WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN … THE MUSIC TURNS UP IN WHITEMARSH! The St. Thomas' Carillon at St. Thomas' Church, Bethlehem Pike and Church Road (Rt. 73) in Fort Washington, will again host another season of Tuesday summer concerts for the community. Tuesday, July 26, Robin Austin will play the carillon, followed by mezzo soprano Suzanne Duplantis with James Batt on the piano. All concerts start at 7 p.m. and are held rain or shine. Free. 215-233-3970.

MERMAID INN: Friday, July 22, Sherry Somach & Ted Jordan; Saturday, July 23, Timberline; Friday, July 29, Tom Gala & the Terraplanes; Saturday, July 29, Don Meyer. Performances, times and cover charges vary. 7673 Winston Road, Chestnut Hill; 215-247-9797 or www.themermaidinn.net.

POETRY & JAZZ SUMMER SLAM will be on Saturday, July 23 from 7:30-10 p.m. at Reformation Lutheran Church, Vernon Road & Rugby Street. 215-548-4332.

ARAB SOUK FESTIVAL sponsored by Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture and the Middle East Center of the University of Pennsylvania will be on Thursday, July 21, 4:30 – 6 p.m. at the Morris Arboretum, 100 Northwestern Ave., followed by Arabic classical music concert with Joseph Tayoun Ensemble from 6:30 – 8 p.m. Free with admission to the arboretum. Campers will showcase their artwork in the lower gallery of the Widener Visitor Center and will give a musical and dramatic performance in the garden on Thursday, July 28, 6-8 p.m. 267-303-0070 or www.albustanseeds.org.

MOVIE MANIA is a fundraising effort for the Lupus Foundation of Southeastern PA. You get to see first-run movies in the theater before they're released and support an important charitable cause at the same time. Call 215-517-5070 for details.

JAZZ FLUTIST WALTER BELL, of Chestnut Hill, is a featured performer each Sunday at Hibachi, Pier 19, Columbus Blvd. & Callowhill St., from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Reservations: 215-592-7100. www.walterbellmusic.com.

AT THE LAROSE CLUB, 5531 Germantown Ave., Tony Williams plays jazz on Mondays; you can take dance lessons and/or dance to the oldies on Wednesdays; enjoy live jazz and Caribbean music on Fridays; and dance to the oldies on Saturdays. 215-844-5818.

THE MUSIC STUDIO on 8611 Germantown Ave. presents concerts on Saturday afternoons at 2 p.m.: Enter through the Evergreen Avenue parking lot; $7 pp includes refreshments. 866-450-0826.

THE ARTS & BUSINESS COUNCIL OF GREATER PHILADELPHIA is seeking business professionals to volunteer for the Business Volunteers for the Arts (BVA) program. 215-790-3621 or www.artsandbusiness-phila.org.

LOOKING FOR HALF-PRICE TICKETS to cultural events in the area? Click www.phillyfunguide.com/calendar/home.do and sign up! 

ARTS

THE CAROL SCHWARTZ GALLERY, 101 Bethlehem Pike, will display “Summer Exhibition,” with local, national and international artists, featuring the oils of David Fox, through July 30. 215-242-4510.

JMS GALLERY, 8236 Germantown Ave. Wed-Fri, 1-6:30; Sat, 12-5; and by appointment. Through August 6: JMS’ annual photography show featuring recent work by Lauren Caulk, Melvin Chappell and Janet Roberts. Also showing in the main gallery: portraits in charcoal by Meri Adelman and a rich variety of sculpture. 215-248-4649 or www.jmsgallery.com.

** WOODMERE ART MUSEUM, 9201 Germantown Ave.: Explore your creative energies and sign up for Woodmere’s art classes for adults, including drawing and painting, watercolor and design, landscape painting, portrait and figure clay sculpture, and drawing and painting from live models. 215-247-0476 or www.woodmereartmuseum.org.

GALLERY SAINT MARTIN, 7811 St. Martin's Lane: fine art by emerging, nationally and internationally known artists; by appointment only. 215-247-7811 or www.GallerySaintMartin.com.

INFUSION’S JULY GALLERY will feature Mt. Airy artists Krishan Klein and Chris Gaddie through August 3. 7133 Germantown Ave. 215-248-1718 or www.InFusionCoffeeandTea.com.

THE WISSAHICKON ART CENTER, 5245 Ridge Ave., Roxborough, offers classes for kids and adults in performing and visual arts. Call 215-482-4860 for details.

WHITEMARSH COMMUNITY ART CENTER, 100 Cedar Grove Road, Conshohocken, offers a variety of art workshops for adults and children throughout the year, plus theater and museum trips. 610-825-0917.

KAREN SINGER TILEWORKS, 90 E. Church Lane in Germantown, offers day and evening tile and ceramics classes for adults and children year-round. 215-849-7010 or www.karensinger.com.

PAPER ARTS WORKSHOPS AT HISTORIC RITTENHOUSETOWN. Nearly 20 weekend workshops will be offered throughout the summer, when people of all ages and abilities can explore and develop the art of hand papermaking and other related disciplines. Working in the papermaking studio in the restored barn offers a special atmosphere, where history and art unite. 206 Lincoln Drive. 215-843-2228 or www.rittenhousetown.org.

“WATER, TREES AND SKY: UNCOMMON VIEWS OF THE ARBORETUM” by Gordon Gibfried will be on display in the Upper Gallery of the Morris Arboretum through Sept. 4. The Morris Arboretum is located at 100 Northwestern Avenue in Chestnut Hill. www.morrisarboretum.org or 215-247-5777.

TESSERAE MOSAIC STUDIO & GALLERY, 6780 Germantown Ave: Spend a weekend in the studio learning how to mosaic. 215-848-2110 or classes@bellamosaic.com.

THE ARTISTS CULTURAL EXCHANGE will be exhibiting a juried group show, mixed media at the Montgomery County Community College Library, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. Thirty-eight artists from Montgomery County, Philadelphia and surrounding areas will be exhibiting some 64 works of art through July 27. 215-782-9064.

SEWING FOR THE SOLDIERS is a Civil War exhibit hosted by the Germantown Historical Society, 5501 Germantown Ave., through October 20. The exhibit includes prints and drawings from the era of women putting garments together for Northern and Southern soldiers. The museum and library are open every Tuesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. 215-844-1683 or www.germantownhistory.org.

ART IN 2 WORLDS: THE NATIVE AMERICAN FINE ART INVITATIONAL, a contemporary art exhibition organized by the Heard Museum in Phoenix, Arizona, will be on display at the Michener Art Museum, 38 South Pine St., Doylestown, through October 16. www.michenerartmuseum.org or 215-340-9800.

NATURE/GARDENS

** AT THE MORRIS ARBORETUM, 100 Northwestern Ave: The Garden Railway is now open. Many trips, activities and classes are going on now — for amateurs as well as professionals — adults as well as kids — including drawing, painting, horticulture, perennial gardening, landscape design and floral design. Upcoming classes include: Each Sunday in July, the arboretum will present its “Great Plants For Your Home Garden Tour.” These hour-long tours begin at 1 p.m. and are designed to showcase plants that are easy to grow, offer attractive features in multiple seasons, are readily available and are pest and disease resistant. Visitors will learn the common and Latin name of each plant as well as the native habitat, size, hardiness and seasonal interest of each tree and shrub. During July and August, the gardens will be open until 8:30 p.m. on Thursday evenings. 215-247-5777, ext. 169 or www.morrisarboretum.org.

** AT THE SCHUYLKILL CENTER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION (SCEE), 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Roxborough: NABA butterfly walk at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 23. Learn How to Fish on July 23 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.; all ages; $5/members and $10/non-members; pre-register by July 18. Nature & Art workshop for kids, where they use nature as inspiration in their artistic endeavors, is being held on Aug. 10 from 1-3 p.m. The cost $7 is per child. Children ages 3-7 are welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-register by August 5 by calling 215-482-7300, ext. 110. www.schuylkillcenter.org.

AT THE WISSAHICKON VALLEY WATERSHED ASSOCIATION, 12 Morris Road, Ambler:Call 215-646-8866 or e-mail WVWA@aol.com for details about all events.

HIKE THE WISSAHICKON with various groups throughout the month. Call the Friends of the Wissahickon at 215-247-0417 for details or click www.fow.org/calendar/calendar.htm.

THE PENNSYLVANIA HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY offers a variety of classes throughout the year at various locations throughout the area. Walks through the gardens and grounds of Meadowbrook Farms, Chanticleer and elsewhere are also part of the program. Call 215-988-8869 or go to www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org for details.

FOR THE KIDS

** THE CHESTNUT HILL LIBRARY, 8711 Germantown Ave.: Summer Reading Game 2005 for preschoolers to teens is happening now. Summer Chess Club for ages 6-18 will be on Wednesdays, 6:30 – 8 p.m., through August 24. Call for summer storytime hours for toddlers. 215-685-9290.

MAKIN’ MUSIC, an interactive music program for preschoolers and their caregivers, takes place on Wednesday and Thursday mornings at 9:15 or 10:15 at the Water Tower Rec Center, and Mondays and Tuesdays at St. Philips in the Field Church, Oreland. 215-233-2560.

STORIES IN THE GARDEN. Preschoolers and their caregivers are invited to a series of storytimes in the Falls of Schuylkill Branch library garden this summer at 3501 Midvale Ave. (at Warden Drive.) Enjoy themes like: My Home in the Sea, Lets Go Camping and A Trip to the Zoo on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. on August 2 & 16. Don’t forget your sunscreen! 215-685-2093.

THE FREE LIBRARY OF SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, 1600 Paper Mill Road, Wyndmoor: check for summer story time hours. 215-836-5300.

BORDERS, 8701 Germantown Ave.: Children’s story time is held the first Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. 215-248-1213.

THE LOVETT LIBRARY is at 6945 Germantown Ave. Call 215-685-2095 for story times.

NOAH’S ARK CHILDREN’S CENTER INC. ministry at Blair Christian Academy, 220 W. Upsal St., offers kid’s club for ages 3 – 13 every first and third Saturday from 10:45 a.m. – 2 p.m. Kids experience Bible time, music, games, arts and crafts and more. Lunch is provided. Drama club and drill team programs are also available. 215-479-9375.

FUN BIRTHDAY PARTIES WITH AN HISTORIC TWIST. For kids aged 7-12, a party at The Highlands includes historic games, crafts, dress up, scavenger hunts and more. The Highlands is located at 7001 Sheaff Lane, Ft. Washington. 215-641-2687.

DAYTIME KIDS' CAPOEIRA CLASS. This Afro-Brazilian form of movement combines martial arts, dance, improvisation and gymnastics. It's the historic precursor to break-dancing. New morning class for kids 8-13 years, led by Martin Reuter. $10 to drop in or 10 classes / $85; Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. at MaMa -- Moving Arts of Mt. Airy, corner of Carpenter Lane & Greene St. 215 842-1040

HATCH DANCE THEATER is offering Creative Movement classes for 3-5 years and “Big & Little” for 2 years and up with their mom, dad, granny or nanny on Thursday mornings at O’Doodle’s Toy Store. Classes for modern dance and acting, ages 6 years and up (including adults) happen Tuesdays and Saturdays at Chestnut Hill United Methodist Church. 215-416-0457 or hatch@entermail.net.

THE WISSAHICKON SKATING CLUB, Willow Grove Avenue and Cherokee Street, has public ice skating every Friday, 8:30 - 10:30 p.m. and Saturdays 11:45 a.m.-1:45 p.m. Friends & Fun for ages 4 1/2-11 Tuesdays and Thursdays 3:45 -4:45 p.m.; open adult hockey, group skating lessons and hockey instruction for all ages at varied times and days; and fun birthday parties. 215-247-1759. $6 admission; $1 guest card; $2 skate rental.

THE WRITERS ROOM OF BUCKS COUNTY, 4 W. Oakland Ave., Doylestown, is offering a number of new programs for children from grades 3 through high school, running through its summer writing camp. 215-348-1663 or www.WritersRoom.net.

AAU BASKETBALL TRYOUTS. The Philadelphia Select Boys AAU Basketball Program is now recruiting boys ages 12-16 to try out for its traveling team. Parents must accompany their athletes to the tryouts. For an invitation (parents only) call Mr. Jones at 267-386-5817.

KIDS WILL ROAR FOR SEA MONSTERS AND MYTHS at Independence Seaport Museum, 211 S. Columbus Blvd. & Walnut St. on Penn's Landing. Every Saturday and Sunday through September 4, from noon to 5 p.m., the museum will present Sea Monsters and Myths. On Saturdays at 1 and 3 p.m., a professional storyteller will weave tales of famous sea creatures and monsters. Free with museum admission or membership: admission is $9 for adults, $6 for children ages 3-12, and seniors are $8. 215-413-8655 or www.phillyseaport.org.

AT THE PLEASE TOUCH MUSEUM, 210 N. 21st St: Through September 30, enjoy an interactive science exhibit called “Contraptions A to Z” along with many other fun activities for the kids. www.pleasetouchmuseum.org or 215-963-0667.

SUMMERTIME

ADVENTURES IN HISTORY CAMP will be offered at The Highlands from August 8-12, 9:30–noon, for children in grades 1 through 4. Historically-based activities, games, storytelling and crafts related to this historic site will be offered. www.highlandshistorical.org or 215-641-2687.

AL-BUSTAN CAMP at the Morris Arboretum provides children 6-12 an opportunity to develop new language skills and appreciate Arab culture while making new friends and exploring the wonders of a natural environment. Open to children of various religious and ethnic backgrounds. “Al-Bustan,” Arabic for the garden encourages dialogue, tolerance and a celebration of diversity. Children do not need to know Arabic to participate, but must be interested in learning the language. Children may sign up for one, two or three weeks of this language, nature, arts, storytelling, music, dance and sports program. Through July 29; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 267-303-0070 or www.albustanseeds.org

ALLENS LANE ART CENTER, Allens Lane & McCallum Street, runs day camp through August 12 for kids 5-12. 215-248-0546.

ART AT WOODMERE. Young people, ages 5 -18, are invited to work with the finest artists in the area during Woodmere’s summer of art making. Classes included a magical art workshop, printmaking, collage and beyond, painting and drawing, performance art and ideas, art around the world, sculpture, landscape painting and comic strip art. Classes start June 27. Woodmere membership is required for art classes. For more information or to register for the art classes, call 215-247-0948.

CAMP INDIGO AT CHESTNUT HILL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH is a non-religious day camp for children 7-12 with a maximum of 15 children; only a few spots are left. Sessions run four, six or eight weeks and run through Thursday, August 4; Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 8:30 - 4:30. 215-247-2236.

CITYWIDE SUMMER ART CAMP. The Philadelphia Department of Recreation’s Summer Art Camp 2005 will be held at Fisher Park, 5th & Spencer Streets in the Olney section of the city. The camp, open to children 8-18 years of age, will be held through Friday, August 19, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Buses run throughout the city to pick up and bring children to the camp each day. Registration is open. For more information or to register call Anne Marie Dunne at 215-685-2871 or Herb Moskovitz at 215-685-1872.

FLAMENCO AND MORE! At Chestnut Hill College's Summer Arts Camp, local campers take classes in flamenco, ballet, jazz and Broadway and end their summer with showcases on campus. Other classes include art, drama, ceramics and the art of nature. www.chc.edu/artscamp.

GERMANTOWN FRIENDS SCHOOL offers summer camps for middle school children. Soccer Camp runs from August 1-5, and is open to boys and girls entering grades 5-9. The Tigers Baseball Camp, from August 8-12, will teach the fundamentals to boys and girls entering grades 5-9. www.gfsnet.org/summer/camps.html or 215-951-2300. Sixers Basketball Camp, for boys and girls ages 7-13, will run from August 15-19 (www.sixerscamps.com or call 610-668-7676).

GHS DISCOVERY THEATER SUMMER CAMP. The Germantown Historical Society, 5501 Germantown Ave., will offer its summer camp program through August 12 for boys and girls entering grades 3 through 6. Every week brings new activities and trips to historic places. The camp runs in one-week sessions, Monday-Friday mornings and/or afternoons. Registration: 215-844-1683.

GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA (GSSP) has designed more than 60 camp sessions to meet the needs of different girls. Home improvement, Web page design, computer animation and travel camp programs are just a few of the highlights for GSSP campers this summer, plus swimming, dancing, horseback riding, photography, acting, biking, hiking, cheerleading or more. Camp sessions run from June through August for girls entering grades one through 12. There are one-week and two-week sessions available, as well as overnight and day camp options. GSSP offers convenient bus transportation for an additional cost. 215-564-2030, ext. 226; e-mail helpdesk@gssp.org; or www.gssp.org.

HOCKEY CAMP. Youth hockey players may enroll in two ice hockey summer camps at the Sovereign Bank Flyers Skate Zone at Voorhees (601 Laurel Oak Road) this August. The two camps are the Philadelphia Phantoms Ice Hockey Camp, August 15-19; and the Philadelphia Flyers 2005 Elite Player Training Camp, August 22-26. 856-309-4400 or www.flyersskatezone.com.

HOPE LODGE SUMMER HISTORY CAMP for children entering grades 2-7 will run from August 1-5 at the site, 553 Bethlehem Pike. Information/registration: 215-646-1595.

MOSAIC ART CAMP for children 8-12 will be offered this summer at Tesserae Studio Gallery. Session 1 runs July 25-29, 1-4 p.m.; session 2 is August 8-12. Campers will create tiles from clay and incorporate them into unique works of mosaic art. Projects vary so that kids can participate in one or both sessions. Only kid-friendly tiles and non-toxic adhesives are used. To register, call 215-848-2110 or e-mail camp@bellamosaic.com.

NITTY-GRITTY BASKETBALL CLINIC: a heavy-duty clinic on fundamentals for those dedicated to the game. At Philadelphia University on August 13-14, given by Sidney Goldstein, author of The Basketball Coach’s Bible. www.mrbasketball.net.

PHILADELPHIA UNIVERSITY SOCCER CAMP, for boys and girls in first through ninth grades, will be from August 15-18. Campers will be divided into three age and ability levels: beginner, intermediate and advanced. The fee is $99 per player for the session. Greg Wilson, Philadelphia University’s head men’s soccer coach, is director of the camp, which will run from 9 a.m. to noon daily on the field in front of Ravenhill Mansion, on School House Lane on the university’s East Falls campus. Campers should bring shin guards, soccer socks, cleats, a soccer ball and water bottle. Camp t-shirts will be given to all players. 215-951-2864 or e-mail MensSoccer@philau.edu. Camp information and registration materials are available online at www.philau.edu/athletics/varsitysports/menssoccer/camps.htm.

SCIENCE IN THE SUMMER will focus on electricity and physical science at libraries throughout the city. More information is at www.scienceinthesummer.com/pages/philadel.html.

SUMMER ART CAMP for kids 5-16 will run through August 26 at the Cheltenham Art Center, 439 Ashbourne Road. The program is specially designed for children who enjoy activities in the visual and performing arts. Students will explore new and exciting creative methods of expression in an independent atmosphere guided by professional teaching artists. 215-379-4660 or e-mail artz@cheltenhamarts.org.

THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN GERMANTOWN, 35 W. Chelten Ave., has summer day camp through August 12, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., for children entering grades 1-7. 215-843-8811.

THE MT. AIRY PLAYGROUND, 7001 Germantown Ave., is hosting specialty camps in archery, baseball, art, golf, soccer and basketball this summer for children ages 6-12. The camps will run Monday thru Friday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Breakfast and lunch are provided for all children. The camps will focus on a specialty activity in the morning session and the afternoon session will focus on swimming, arts and crafts, movies and other activities. Parents may enroll their children for any number of weeks. 215-685-9297; registration is held every Monday and Wednesday from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.

THE ROCK GARDEN (www.therockgarden.net) is a performance-oriented summer music program for student musicians ages 11-17. It meets at The Crefeld School, Monday-Friday, 9-3, through July 29. Its mission is to celebrate the joy of music in a setting that fosters teamwork, individual creativity and a passion for performing. The professional staff is dedicated to promoting musical excellence in a noncompetitive, yet challenging environment. A minimum of one year’s experience on a musical instrument is desired. The director will meet with applicants individually to assess skill level and discuss program goals. 215-266-8658 or e-mail rigpasonic@aol.com.

THE SALVATION ARMY is offering a weeklong Christian camp program this summer for children ages 7-12 and teens ages 13-16, at Camp Ladore in the Pocono Mountains. Activities include swimming, boating, fishing, tent pitching, hiking, arts & crafts, basketball, archery, nature exploration and lots more! To register your child for Camp Ladore, call the Salvation Army at 215-787-2814.

THE WISSAHICKON ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER at Andorra Natural Area in Fairmount Park offers the “Tree House Tots” summer camp for children ages 3-5 (along with a parent) from Monday-Friday, Aug. 1-5, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Parents can join their children as they discover chipmunks, turtles, groundhogs, plants and fish through stories, hikes, making crafts and looking at live animals. The program fee is $40. “August Adventures in the Wissahickon” is for children 5-10, from Aug. 15-19, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Each day includes, hikes, crafts, games and a snack. The program fee is $100. Information/registration: 215-685-9285.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL. Trinity Lutheran Church, 5300 Germantown Ave. (at Queen Lane) is offering Vacation Bible School for children ages 4-12 on weekday evenings, August 15-26, from 6:30-8 p.m. The summer program in Christian education features Bible study, music, worship, crafts and games. The program is free, but registration is required by August 6. For registration or further information, call 215-848-8150.

WHITEMARSH COMMUNITY ART CENTER SUMMER ART CAMP: students will explore painting, drawing, printmaking and clay. Call 610-825-0917 for details. Classes are held in the farmhouse in Cedar Grove Park, 100 Cedar Grove Road, in Conshohocken from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

THE YMCA OF GERMANTOWN, 5722 Greene St., offers a summer camp program for children 3 1/2 – 15 years old through August 18 with a full range of activities and day trips. 215-849-6990.

HEALTH/FITNESS

HOSTS FOR HOSPITALS, Philadelphia, joins the National Association of Host Hospitality Houses in kicking off National Hospital Hospitality Week, July 24-30. HOSTS for HOSPITALS provides free lodging for patients and their families when undergoing treatments within the Philadelphia area hospitals. Since their inception, six years ago, they have provided 17,000 nights of lodging, saving our guests millions of dollars in hotel costs. Hosts for Hospitals has a network of 175 host homes throughout the Greater Philadelphia area, but the urgent need for more grows steadily. These people open their homes to families undergoing medical crisis. Want to find out how you can help make a difference in another families’ life just by letting them sleep in your guest bedroom or on your pullout sofa bed, instead of in their car? Call 215-372-3801. www.hostsforhospitals.org.

NATURE'S DOCTORS, PART TWO, covering simple, natural remedies that one can use at home to help manage the symptoms of and enhance recovery from common sicknesses, will be presented by Jennifer J. Schwirzer on Sunday, July 24 at Expressly Vegetarian Café, 8700 Germantown Ave. Lecture begins at 5 p.m.; a gourmet vegetarian meal will be served at 6. Meal is $10 for adults and $7 for kids with advanced registration: 215-233-1286 or eatplants@expresslyvegetarian.com.

HEAR WHAT YOU’VE BEEN MISSING. If you or someone you love has any level of hearing loss, you are invited to a hearing help support group led by a specialist from the Temple School of Communication Sciences. The summer meeting is Thursday, July 28, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at INTERAC Center for Older Adults, 6012 Ridge Ave. The group deals with issues ranging from assistive devices to best communication tips. RSVP deadline is Tuesday, July 26; call 215-487-1750.

BLOOD SUPPLIES REMAIN AT A CRITICALLY LOW LEVEL! Being a donor might not get your name in the newspaper or on TV, but it sure makes you an American hero. You can give on Thursday, July 21, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., at Philadelphia University, School House Lane & Henry Ave. Information / scheduling: 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or www.pleasegiveblood.org.

GENTLE MEDITATIVE YOGA CLASS at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Restoration, 6900 Stenton Ave., will take place on Tuesdays, 8 – 9:30 a.m. A yoga mat and loose clothing are recommended; voluntary contribution accepted. To reserve a place, call Jane Hulting, 215-782-1919. Also offered is sitting meditation on Tuesday evenings at 6 p.m., for 20 minutes and a creative writing circle on Thursdays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Full info: 215-247-2561 oroffice@uurestoration.us.

THE MATERNAL WELLNESS CENTER is at 7149 Germantown Avenue, in the Mt. Airy Healing Arts Space. They provide individual and couples psychotherapy as well as holistic birth education and a number of other supportive groups and services for women and families. Free Birth Circles are held the first Sunday of each month. Share your birth experiences, ask questions about pregnancy, birth and beyond, and get to know local moms. 215-242-1815.

DIVORCED? SEPARATED? WORRIED ABOUT YOUR KIDS? Anita Goldenberg, MSS, LSW, certified in marriage and family therapy, of the Mt. Airy Healing Arts Space is offering a weekly workshop to help children in families of divorced or separated parents. Workshops are held on Tuesday evenings from 6 – 8 p.m. at 7149 Germantown Ave. Cost: $120 for 6-week session. To register, call Anita Goldenberg at 215-247-2483.

JEWISH FAMILY AND CHILDREN'S SERVICE of Greater Philadelphia will be offering continuing education programs and classes on health and healing at various locations throughout the region. Visit www.jfcsphil.org or call 215-540-3737 for more information.

BEGINNER GYROKINESIS CLASS (therapeutic movement system for the spine) taught by Joe Tighe, physical therapist, every Monday evening at 6:30 p.m. at his studio, The Balance Point, 400 W. Hortter St. Jessica Krow teaches every Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m. First class free. 215-844-7773.

STRENGTH AND AEROBIC INTERVAL TRAINING is offered on Saturdays at 6:30 a.m. at Wallace and Glick Physical Therapy and Fitness, 813 Bethlehem Pike. $. 215-233-9677. Donna Storm and Drew Wallace will lead the training.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUPS for adults, sponsored by Koller Funeral Home, 6835 Ridge Ave., continue on alternate Tuesday afternoons from 1:30-2:45 p.m. Free. Information: 215-624-8190.

KEYSTONE HOSPICE OFFERS SUPPORT GROUPS throughout the month, with specialty groups for children, widowers, young widows, and a new “motherless daughters” group. Most are free, lunch is often included, but pre-registration is requested: 215-836-2440. 8765 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor.

STAY IN SHAPE. For many kinds of movement, mind-body and dance classes for you and your kids, ongoing and drop-in, look to the Moving Arts Studio, off Lincoln Drive. 215 842-1040.

FUN RUN. Wissahickon Wanderers Running Club meets every Saturday at 8 a.m.; start at Valley Green. Details: 215-849-9080 or www.wanderersrunningclub.org.

RELAX INTO NOW MEDITATION teleclass with Linda Durand every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 8 p.m. Join this group call and experience "yoga on the phone" without leaving home! 215-242-0604 or www.RelaxIntoNow.com.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS conducts two meetings each week at Roxborough Memorial Hospital, 5800 Ridge Avenue. Details: 215-248-4333.

THE ROXBOROUGH YMCA, 7201 Ridge Ave., offers a variety of fitness classes for children, teens and adults throughout the year. 215-482-3900.

YOGA / TAI CHI / QIGONG classes are offered throughout the week at The Second Wind Center, 98 Bethlehem Pike. Information: 215-248-9642.

CHESTNUT HILL HOSPITAL offers a great variety of programs and support groups, plus exercise programs for all ages and physical conditions (including yoga, Feldenkrais and awareness through movement), cardiac rehabilitation, women’s health issues, smoking cessation programs, CPR, a senior activity and functional evaluation (SAFE) program, a variety of clinical trials, a driver screening course, wound care program, diabetes education and support center, a geriatric resource center, drop-in parenting discussion and child play group, a prosthetic and orthotic program, wheelchair program, prenatal/postpartum yoga classes, cancer support groups, breastfeeding classes, stroke club, babysitter training and more. 215-753-2000 or www.chh.org.

THE WELLNESS COMMUNITY sponsors many programs and support groups for people with cancer. 215-879-7733 or www.twcp.org.

NEW SELF HELP COURSE REACHES OUT TO THOSE WITH LUPUS: free sessions give tips to keep quality lifestyle everyday. The Lupus Foundation of America, Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter, has launched a self-help course for people with lupus. This seven-week program is free of charge and is designed to teach people with lupus how to take a more active part in their health care and live better with this chronic disease. Enrollment is now underway for spring courses which will take place at four area locations. Each weekly session is facilitated by a team of trained volunteers and will include topics such as basic medical information about lupus, medications and treatments, exercise, doctor-patient communication, fatigue management and relaxation and stress management techniques. Pre-registration is required. Programs will be held in the spring and fall. 215-517-5070 or www.lupus-sepa.org.

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION FAMILY SUPPORT GROUPS: Meetings are at Sunrise of Lafayette Hill, 429 Ridge Pike, on the second Wednesday of the month from 5:30-7 p.m.; and at Homelink (Adult Day Center), 6950 Germantown Ave., on the third Wednesday of the month from 7-9 p.m. 800-272-3900.

EDUCATION

MINI-MEDICAL SCHOOL. Register now for Drexel University College of Medicine's Mini-Medical School. The 8-week community education program is open to anyone 18 or older interested in learning more about the medical field. Classes begin September 27. 215-762-6800 or http//www.drexel.edu/med/minimed

KIDS THAT START AHEAD, STAY AHEAD! How to teach your newborn to six-year-old anything and everything joyously. View a free 44-minute introductory video production, featuring author Glenn Doman at the Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential, 8801 Stenton Ave., Wyndmoor. Dates/reservations: 267-440-2576.

THE MT. AIRY COMPUTER CENTER, 6335 Wayne Ave., offers classes for kids and adults throughout the week. Call 215-438-8505 for a complete schedule.

GOOD SHEPHERD OFFERS A VARIETY OF MEDIATION PROGRAMS throughout the year, including basic mediator training, 2005 volunteer gatherings, conflict coaching, divorce & custody mediation, victim offender conferencing training, mediating disability — related disputes and representing your client in mediation. Basic mediation training is being offered on July 28, 29 & 30. For information about registration and fees, call 215-843-5413. The Mediation Center is located at 5356 Chew Ave., Germantown.

TOURS/TRIPS

EXPLORE GRUMBLETHORPE. A new historic house and garden tour has been designed for senior citizens at Grumblethorpe, 5267 Germantown Ave. Visit an 18th century house and garden. See Sally Wister’s bedroom, original kitchen and the desk where Owen Wister wrote his famous novel, The Virginian. See a restored Federal garden, America’s oldest ginkgo tree and the ruins of the observatory where Charles Wister charted the Grumblethorpe Meridian. Grumblethorpe is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m. Admission $4. 215-925-2251.

LAUREL HILL CEMETERY, 3822 Ridge Ave., is now fully open on weekends: Saturdays and Sundays, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.; weekdays, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monthly tours focusing on different aspects of and/or people buried at the site are held on the second Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. 215-228-8200.

JOHNSON HOUSE, a National Historic Landmark cited for its involvement in the Underground Railroad, is open for guided tours, which include a detailed history of the 240-year-old house, its rooms, its grounds and the hiding spaces used by fugitive slaves. There are collections on view related to the Johnson family and its involvement in Philadelphia’s anti-slavery efforts of the 19th century. Tours are by appointment on Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and by appointment or drop-in on Saturday from 1 to 4 p .m. The house, made of local Wissahickon schist, is located at 6306 Germantown Ave. on the corner of Washington Lane. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and $2 for children. Call 215-438-1768 to schedule a group or individual tour or with any questions.

CONGREGATION OR AMI is sponsoring a trip to see Hairspray, on Sunday, September 11, at the Merriam Theatre. Reservations: 610-828-8882.

YMCA CAPE COD TRIP. The Roxborough YMCA is organizing a 4-day, 3-night trip to Cape Cod from Oct. 17 – 20. The package includes motorcoach transportation, three nights lodging, three breakfasts, three dinners, including a lobsterbake, fully escorted tours of Provincetown, Hyannis area and Historic Sandwich, Hyannis Harbor cruise, and a visit to Foxwoods Casino en route home. $324 per person. Contact Rosemarie Smeltzer at 215-482-3900, extension 30.

RELIGION

ST. MICHAEL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH, 6671 Germantown Ave., is following its summer schedule, with worship at 10 a.m., through September 8. Holy Communion will be celebrated every Sunday. Special music including guest musicians and liturgical dancers will be featured throughout the summer. All are welcome. 215-848-0199.

WOMEN OF THE WORD MINISTRY continues to grow in numbers and in faith each Friday night at the Second Baptist Church of Germantown, 6459 Germantown Ave. (@ Upsal). On Friday July 22, at 6:30 p.m., the guest preacher will be the Rev. Wynette Dukes, from Grace Baptist Church of Germantown. 215-849-0257.

SSJ CENTER FOR SPIRITUALITY, 9701 Germantown Ave., offers weekend retreats, presentations and spiritual workshops throughout the year. Call 215-248-7222 for details.

CONGREGATION OR AMI: Classes in ethics, Torah study, women’s issues, basic Judaism and more, plus Shabbat services are held throughout the month. Call 610-828-9066 for more information. 708 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill.

THE JEWISH CHILDREN’S FOLKSHUL meets at the Germantown Friends School, Sharpless Building, 31 W. Coulter St. 215-248-1550 or www.folkshul.org.

PLYMOUTH VALLEY COMMUNITY CHURCH, 1090 Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting, offers a full range of worship and community services and special events. 610-277-1690 or www.PVCCHURCH.com.

MISCELLANEOUS

GET READY, GET SET GO SHOPPING. On Saturday, July 30, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the shops and restaurants of Chestnut Hill will join forces with Run for the Hill of It to raise funds for Friends of Erik, an organization that raises much-needed money for families forced to cope with severe illness. Participating stores will donate a portion of sales to this very worthy cause or contribute to the charity via sponsorship of the Run. There will be a free shoppers trolley and music will be provided by The Kabudi Project.

RUN FOR THE HILL OF IT is on July 30.

THE MT. AIRY SAFETY NETWORK will present “Hi Neighbor: Resolving Neighbor to Neighbor Disputes Peacefully” on Wednesday, July 27, 7 p.m., at the Lutheran Theological Seminary, 7301 Germantown Ave. 215-438-6022.

SAVE THE DATE. The Black & White Gala will take place on the 8500 block of Germantown Ave. on Saturday, September 24. Volunteers are needed; a meeting will be on Monday, July 25 at 7 p.m. Call Susan at 215-248-8810 for details.

SUNDAYS ON THE HILL RETURNS. The Chestnut Hill Business Association’s Sunday Shopping on the Hill promotion is in full swing. Come to Germantown Avenue beginning at 1 p.m. on Sundays for free trolley rides, music and other special events. Call the CHBA at 215-247-6696 for more information.

MANNA GARAGE SALE. MANNA, the local nonprofit that delivers nourishment to people living with HIV/AIDS, is holding a fundraising garage sale on Friday, July 22. Original artwork and attic treasures will be sold from 2-7 p.m. at 23rd & Ranstead streets (between Market and Chestnut in Philadelphia). www.mannapa.org or 215-49-MANNA.

PAMPER PARTY, a fundraiser to benefit Women of Faith and Hope, a breast health education and breast cancer self-help support group, will be on Saturday, July 23, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at Imhotep Institute Charter High School, Kush Building, 2101 West Godfrey Avenue, Germantown. Facials, manicures, pedicures and chair and table massages will be available. Services provided by volunteer licensed professionals. 215-849-7004.

AT THE CHESTNUT HILL SENIOR CENTER: Spanish classes continue at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Mondays, through August 15. On Tuesday, July 26 at 1 p.m., the community is invited to join members for The Incredibles. 7999 Crittenden Street. 215-248-0180.

AT THE CENTER IN THE PARK, 5818 Germantown Ave. Call for a roster of activities: 215-848-7722 or www.centerinthepark.org.

SWING DANCE on Saturday, July 23. Swing lessons at 7 p.m., followed by dancing to DJ music, 8:45 – midnight. $10 ($7 students or substantial baked goods to share). Widener Hall, 8855 Germantown Ave. 610-676-0123 or www.swingdance.org.

DOG DAZE AT THE HIGHLANDS will be on July 22-24. This “doggie day camp” includes Introduction to Dog Sports, obedience skills, professional pet photo sessions and canine massage. $179 includes all instruction, lunch both days and snacks. The Highlands is located at the intersection of Sheaff Lane and Skippack Pike (Route 73) in Fort Washington. On-site parking is free. 215-641-2687.

CONTRA DANCING takes place every Thursday evening at Glenside Memorial Hall, Keswick Ave. and Waverly Street, Glenside. The dance runs from 8-11 p.m., with a break in the middle. There is always live music, with a different band each week. Dances are also on the third Saturdays from September to May. Admission is $6-7. 215-643-4397 or www.thursdaycontra.com.

APPALACHIAN CLOGGING CLASSES run through early September at the Allens Lane Art Center, Allens Lane & McCallum streets, on Saturdays, 11 a.m. – noon. $7/session; no pre-registration required. Leather bottom or tap shoes are the most suitable footwear. 215-643-4397 or email info@fiddlekicks.com.

WEST AFRICAN DANCE CLASS w/ Maurice Edwards takes place at Summit Presbyterian Church (basement). Green and Westview Streets in Mount Airy on Wednesdays from 7:30-9 p.m. Live drums. $15. 215-849-1484.

INTERNATIONAL DANCING takes place at Or Hadash, 190 Camp Hill Road, Fort Washington from 8 to 10 p.m. on Wednesdays. $5; free first time. www.beaverfolkdance.org or 610-688-3284.

DOWNTOWN

WALK PHILADELPHIA offers dozens of guided architecture tours of the city and region. 215-625-9255 or www.walkphiladelphia.com.

WEDNESDAYS IN THE CITY. Enjoy $4 cocktails, $3 wine and $2 beers with free appetizers at participating bars and restaurants all over Center City, every Wednesday, through August 31, from 5-7 p.m. www.centercityphila.org/summerinthecity/happyhr.aspx or 215-440-5500.

AT THE ACADEMY OF NATURAL SCIENCES, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, “DOGS: Wolf, Myth, Hero & Friend” will run through September 5, with activities for the whole family almost every weekend. DOGS is the largest, most comprehensive traveling exhibition ever created to explore the history, biology and evolution of dogs and the role of dogs in human societies. 215-299-1000 or www.acnatsci.org.

AT THE NATIONAL LIBERTY MUSEUM, 321 Chestnut St.: A variety of special activities are taking place through the summer. July 26, 2005 is the 15th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The National Liberty Museum houses the nation’s only exhibit honoring Americans with disabilities, called “Exceptional Americans,” which honors 33 American heroes who have achieved remarkable success while coping with a physical or mental disability. 215-925-2800 or www.libertymuseum.org.

AT THE NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER, 525 Arch St.: On display through November 4, “Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War” will take visitors along a tense, exciting reconstruction of just how President Abraham Lincoln succeeded in saving the nation during this time of unparalleled turmoil. 215-409-6700 or www.constitutioncenter.org.

PENN'S LANDING, celebrating its 20th anniversary season, is the main site for a variety of festivals, concerts and events this summer, many of which are free. Friday evenings in July at 7, the music of R&B will be featured in free concerts. Penn’s Landing runs along Columbus Boulevard from Washington Avenue to Spring Garden Street. Details are at 215-922-2FUN or www.pennslandingcorp.com.

AT THE FRANKLIN INSTITUTE, 222 N. 20th St.: July is National Physics Month with an explosion of events celebrating physics. 215-448-1254 or www.fi.edu#

** Member of Chestnut Hill Cultural Alliance

VOLUNTEER

• Volunteers Needed for the Second Annual "Retrieving Memory" Golf, Silent Auction and Dinner event to benefit Alzheimer's Research and the Alzheimer's Association, Delaware Valley Chapter. This year’s event will be held on October 17, 2005 at the Philadelphia Cricket Club. Last year’s event grossed over $200,000 for this important cause. For more information about volunteering or sponsorships please call Bruce Glendinning at 610-940-3909 or e-mail him at bruce22@comcast.net.

• Volunteers Needed for TEX MEX Race for Open Space on June 22, 2005. The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association and TEX MEX Connection Restaurant and Bar will host the 17th TEX MEX 5K Race for Open Space on Wednesday, June 22 at 7:30 in North Wales. This popular, midweek race hosts 800 runners. Everyone finishes in the parking lot of Tex Mex Connection for the Post Race Party of tacos, salad and a beverage. There is also a 1-mile walk and a 1-mile fun run, all held at 7 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association’s work to preserve open space. WVWA needs over 70 volunteers a to help direct the runners, man the water stops and help at the finish line. Volunteers are needed from 5:00 or 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. and are invited to join everyone for the Post Race Party. To volunteer or to receive information about the race, call Carol DeLancey: carolatWVWA@aol.com or call 215-646-8866 ext. 15; go to www.active.com; or pickup a brochure at Tex Mex Connection at 2nd & Walnut Streets, North Wales.

• Ronald McDonald Camp needs counselors for Aug. 14-20. 215-387-8406, ext.325 or www.RonaldMcDonaldCamp.org.

• The Academy of Natural Sciences is recruiting volunteers for the exhibit “Dogs: Wolf, Myth, Hero & Friend” to be at the Academy this summer. For information contact Lois Kuter, volunteer coordinator, 215-299-1029 or kuter@acnatsci.org.

• Wissahickon Hospice is actively recruiting volunteers to serve and support hospice patients and families within the community. Once trained, hospice volunteers join the team of doctors, nurses, social workers, home health aides and pastoral counselors to provide care and support to patients and families facing end of life struggles. Whether visiting with patients in their homes, nursing homes or helping with administrative office duties and special events, volunteers give of their time, experience and talents to serve their community. 610-617-2400.

• You can be the one to make a difference in someone's life! Share your time, talent and energy as a volunteer for Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Philadelphia. JFCS needs volunteers in a variety of areas. There are opportunities to volunteer as individuals, as families or as a group. For information call Sandra Fryer, JFCS director of volunteer services, at 215-698-9950, ext. 112.

• Seeking domestic violence hotline volunteers. Philadelphia-based domestic violence agency seeks dedicated hotline volunteers to counsel women endangered by domestic violence and substance abuse. Volunteers participate in a 45-hour crisis-intervention training program (two nights/week) in spring 2005 and volunteer for two six-hour shifts a month. Be a voice of hope and safety for women and their children. For more information, call 215-564-5301, extension 118, or visit www.womanintransitioninc.org.

• Roxborough YMCA after school program needs your help. Are you a high school student, college student or adult looking to help others? Are you good with math, English, history, science or arts and crafts? The Roxborough YMCA is looking for volunteer tutors to help tutor children in its After School Program. Children will range from kindergarten to the fifth grade. Anyone interested should contact Mark Szezek at the Roxborough YMCA at 215-482-3900, extension 24.

• Volunteer with ASAP/After School Activities Partnerships! Share your passion, hobby or pastime with kids for one hour a week at a school, recreation center or library convenient to you. Call ASAP/After School Activities Partnerships at 215-875-7024, e-mail asapinfo@phillyasap.org or go to www.phillyasap.org. 

• The Pennsylvania Senior Environment Corps of The Schuylkill Center is seeking active people over 55 who are interested in doing water quality monitoring, public outreach or related activities for just a few hours each month. Call 215-482-7300.

• The Lupus Foundation of Southeastern PA can always use help with general office work as well as special events and projects. 215-517-5070 or www.lupus-sepa.org.

• Chestnut Hill Hospital is recruiting volunteers for a variety of challenging positions. Volunteers are needed in patient and non-patient care areas. A commitment of a 4-hour block of time once a week is desired. Call 215-248-8289 or e-mail vsd@CHH.org.

• Philadelphia Reads. Philadelphia Reads, a nonprofit agency which promotes children’s literacy, wants to make all Philadelphia school children bookworms. The organization trains community members to work as reading coaches in area schools, community organizations and faith-based organizations, which are located throughout the city. Volunteers are required to serve a minimum of one hour per week for a three month period. Two summer training sessions are being held. Space is limited, so reservations are necessary. The dates are: Saturday, June 18 and Wednesday, June 22. For more information, call 215-851-1748 or visit www.phila.gov/philareads.

• Fox Chase Cancer Center is looking for volunteers to provide administrative staffing assistance. Call 215-728-3110 for more information.

• Cancer Patients Need Your Help. Area cancer patients need your help to get to and from their medical treatments and appointments. Road to Recovery, a service program sponsored by the American Cancer Society, needs kind people to volunteer a few weekday hours to help a neighbor in need. Some mileage reimbursement is available and schedules are flexible. Reliable car and insurance required. For more information, call 610-692-0677.

• The Philadelphia Department of Human Services (DHS) is seeking male and female volunteers to serve as mentors to the young men and women enrolled in DHS’ Achieving Independence Center (AI Center), a resource for young men and women in foster care who are “aging out” of the system. For many of these young people, there is no family or support network awaiting them. The AI Center enables these young men and women to acquire basic life skills, employment training, job opportunities and even a place to live. Mentors must be at least 21 years of age, be willing to make a 12-month commitment to the AI Center and volunteer a minimum of four hours per month. The AI Center staff will match you with a young person with whom you are compatible and provide you with mentor orientation and training sessions. The most significant requirements are compassion, strong listening skills and a desire to help someone less fortunate. To learn more about the program, call the AI Center at 215-574-9194.

• The Highlands Historical Society Needs Docents & Volunteers. Wanted: people-friendly, well-spoken individuals to help with special educational programs, guide historical interpretative tours and/ or work with children’s programs. Behind-the-scenes, physical help is also welcomed in the garden. Call Jennifer April at The Highlands Historical Society for more information: 215-641-2687.

• The Red Cross Needs Disaster Response Volunteers. Free training provided. Call 215-405-8558.

• The Center for Literacy is seeking volunteers to help improve the reading skills of thousands of area residents. Call 215-474-1235 or click www.centerforliteracy.org for more information.

• Foster Parents Needed. Catholic Social Services is looking for married or single adults to become foster parents to children of all ages, races and religions. Homes are also needed for children with special medical or emotional needs and for siblings who wish to live together. 215-587-3960.

• Historic RittenhouseTown needs volunteers for a variety of activities. Call 215-438-5711 or go to www.rittenhousetown.org.

• Samaritan Care Hospice is looking for volunteers to provide one-on-one companionship to terminally ill patients with a wide range of life-limiting illnesses, including cancer, end-stage cardiac diseases, ALS and end-stage Alzheimer’s. For information call 215-653-7310.

• The Franklin Institute Science Museum needs volunteers in a variety of areas, from mentoring Germantown students about careers in science and technology to greeting visitors to helping with the museum’s special events. Call 215-448-1163 or visit www.fi.edu.

• www.volunteersolutions.org/volunteerway/volunteer/ is a great starting point for you to find volunteer opportunities, as is www.philacares.com.

• Mayor’s commission on service to the aging’s APPRISE program is seeking volunteers to counsel seniors regarding Medicare, Medicaid and health care fraud issues; training will be provided. For more information, call 215-686-8462.

• You can be the one to make a difference in someone's life. Share your time, talent and energy as a volunteer for Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Philadelphia. JFCS needs volunteers to provide the following services: calling, visiting, driving, or providing shopping assistance for an elderly or disabled client; befriending an adolescent or adult with a developmental disability; Helping with minor home maintenance and home repairs on a periodic basis; becoming a volunteer grandparent (adults 50 plus) in the Project JOY program. Volunteer as individuals, as families or as a group. Information: Sandra Fryer, 215-698-9950, ext. 112; Irma Simuni, 215-698-4529, ext. 228 or 284 or www.jfcsphil.org.