Here is a list of places in Modesto and throughout the Northern San Joaquin Valley where volunteers are needed.

Volunteers of all ages are invited to take part this year in family-friendly projects in Modesto, throughout Stanislaus County and the Central Valley.

Religion Digest (4/7/13)

John Ortberg's newest book, "Who Is This Man? The Unpredictable Impact of the Inescapable Jesus," looks at the impact of the carpenter from Galilee. Believe in Jesus or not, Ortberg said, but you can't escape the fact that he has split history, influenced education, impacted science and much more.

Much of the Christian world today celebrates Easter, or Resurrection Sunday. Whether or not you believe that Jesus Christ was the son of God, as author and pastor John Ortberg says in his latest book, there is no mistaking the impact of his life.

Families joined Modesto area churches for song and prayer on an Easter Sunday that was at times somber and celebratory, with weather to match.

Religion Digest (3/31/13)

Following traditions set over centuries and across the world, the Christian world celebrates Palm Sunday, followed by the most holy week in their faith, concluding with Easter Sunday — often called Resurrection Sunday — next weekend.

Passover begins at sundown Monday, a major observance in Judaism that looks back to the time when God delivered the Jews from slavery in Egypt and first established them as a nation. The historical account will be retold when Congregation Beth Shalom in Modesto.

Religion Digest (3/24/13)

Call the Volunteer Center of United Way at (209) 524-1307 or email volunteer@uwaystan.org">b>volunteer@uwaystan.org.

Easter activities abound at area houses of worship.

Find volunteer opportunities.

The Stanislaus County Commission for Women has announced its Outstanding Woman of Stanislaus County award recipients for 2013.

Call the Volunteer Center of United Way at (209) 524-1307 or email volunteer@uwaystan.org.