Agency Details:[ View Opportunities ]
The Metropolitan Washington Ear
To provide a free reading service for visually impaired and print disabled people to bring them into the mainstream, rather than segregating them from society.
Description:
We read all local newspapers as well as numerous magazines and articles. We provide a look up service from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. every night of the week. We do audio description of plays, as well as reading National Symphony Orchestra program notes.
History:
The Metropolitan Washington Ear was founded over 30 years ago by Dr. Margaret Rockwell Pfanstiehl. Dr. Pfanstiehl, who is also visually impaired, decided she wanted to make it possible for others like her to enjoy life through reading. The Ear broadcasts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Contact person: Debbie Fitch, Volunteer Manager, (phone), (email)
Office fax number: (301) 625-1986
Address:
 |
12061 Tech RoadSilver Spring, MD 20904(See a map) |
Web Site: http://www.washear.org
Directions:
|
If you take the bus to the Ear, please note the bus from the Metro is Z6 and Z8, the MTA is #929 & the Ride On is Route 21.
To drive to Tech Road from our present location, go North. . . (more)
Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: Silver Spring-red line,
Walk distance (in minutes): 15-20
Nearest Bus Stop: #9 ride-on or any Z bus to Four Corners or Woodmoor Shopping Center, 1-2 minute walk |
| Last updated on July 1, 2009 |
Volunteer Reflections
Post Your Own!
The Metropolitan Washington Ear
5
Overall Experience
Great service opportunity - flexible timing
|
I just started volunteering and have been there twice so far. I was a little concerned about the "audition" and whether I'd be able to make it to the studio at an appropriate time. I think the audition is mainly to confirm that volunteers are articulate and comfortable pronouncing names/places in the news. And since I have an 8 - 5 job, I go into the studio before work and record my portion of the paper. Some people might be dissuaded because you aren't interacting directly with the beneficiaries, but I think it's a stellar opportunity if you enjoy reading.
posted by memory79 on January 17, 2008 |
The Metropolitan Washington Ear
5
Overall Experience
I'd volunteer again in a heartbeat.
|
I volunteer as a reader at the Metropolitan Washington Ear. The Ear provides services such as telephone dial-in reading of newspapers, magazines, etc. for the blind and visually impaired. I read the Washington Post on the radio for two hours each week for visually impaired listeners. It's a great organization and the work is challenging and rewarding.
posted by MickS on July 11, 2005 |
|
