Lincoln Avenue Elementary School Principal Kathleenan Cool recently described the focus on volunteer work in Pearl River.
"In the Pearl River community, whoever needs someting, we are on it," Cool said.
That makes selecting five non-profit organizations that stand out in Pearl River extremely difficult -- there are many more than five. The school district itself, which requires 40 hours of volunteer work from each high school student to graduate, could be included. There are nearly 20 religious institutions in town, groups like the Masons and the Pearl River Ambulance Corps that could have just as easily made the list.
So, in on particular order, here are five non-profit organizations in Pearl River, but they are only five of many.
www.rotaryclubofpearlriver.org
- This club celebrated its 75th year in December and continues to make a large impact on Pearl River. Following International Rotary's motto of "Service Above Self," this group sponsors events such as a fishing contest in May, the soapbox derby in June and Share Christmas and the Holidays in December.
- Gave out 19 scholarships worth $38,000 in 2010.
- Runs the electronic community message board by ShopRite.
- Has no set address, but holds weekly meetings at the Greenhouse Cafe on Middletown Road.
Pearl River Chamber of Commerce
www.pearlriverny.org/index.html
- Organization made up of business owners and other key members of the community sponsors local events such as Pearl River Day and Mom's Night Out.
- Also features beautification committee that focuses on improving the look of the town and putting up holiday decorations.
- Another mobile organization which holds monthly meetings in various locations, most recently at The Saloon on E. Central Avenue.
Ancient Order of Hibernians - 28 Railroad Avenue - 845-735-0855
- Membership makes up a very large percentage of the Rockand County AOH, which organizes the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in Pearl River
- Offers college scholarships.
Excelsior Fire Engine Company of Pearl River - 1 Mike Kernan Drive - 845-735-2800
- Founded in 1912, this all-volunteer department makes up half or the Pearl River Fire Department.
Pearl River Hook and Ladder -- 58 E. Central Avenue - 845-735-8822
- Founded in 1912, this all-volunteer department makes up half or the Pearl River Fire Department.
