Volunteers Needed For Winter Decorating Downtown November 22

The Franklin Downtown Partnership and the Franklin Garden Club are getting ready to decorate the downtown for the holidays and winter on Saturday, November 22 from 9 AM to 12 PM. Volunteers are needed to help clean, prep and decorate.  

Volunteers Needed For Winter Decorating
Downtown November 22

Eileen Mason of RE/MAX Executive Realty and Sandy Sauer of Franklin Tile Carpet One co-chair the FDP Beautification Committee. Please email Eileen Mason at emason4234@gmail.com to sign up. 

Students: if you have community service hours to satisfy, this is a great time to earn your hours. You will get a note documenting your service.

“We are dedicated to making the downtown area festive during the holiday season,” said Mason, who is also a member of Franklin Garden Club. “The decorations make Franklin even more inviting to residents and visitors who go downtown to enjoy our shops and restaurants.” 

Franklin Downtown Partnership thanks the following sponsors of Winter Decorating Day. 

Platinum: D.G. Ranieri Real Estate; Doherty, Dugan, Cannon, Raymond & Weil, P.C.; Eileen Mason-RE/MAX Executive Realty; G & C Plumbing & Heating; Glen; Meadow Apartments-Schochet Companies; Middlesex Savings Bank. Gold: Dean Bank; Eagle Stainless Tube & Fabrication, Inc.; Notturno Home Services; PEEL microspa. Silver: Connell Roofing, Inc.; Elizabeth's Bagels; Fenton Financial Group; Friends of the Franklin Elders, Inc.; Oteri Funeral Home; Pisini Shoes; Simon's Furniture; Vet Med Pet Supplies

Stay up to date and follow the Franklin Downtown Partnership on Instagram and Facebook at:  https://www.instagram.com/franklindowntownpartnership/  and  https://www.facebook.com/franklindowntownpartnership.org/

The Franklin Downtown Partnership (FDP) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization made up of more than 350 business owners, residents, and community leaders working to revitalize downtown Franklin. Residents can join the Downtown Partnership for $25. The Partnership manages events like the Strawberry Stroll and the Harvest Festival, and initiatives such as spring beautification, streetscape design, greenspace, alley murals, and sculpture projects. For more information go to www.franklindowntownpartnership.org

Norfolk County Sheriff: Volunteers Needed - Veterans' Outreach Canton

You don't want to miss this.

The Norfolk County Sheriff's Office is looking for volunteers for our next House to House for Heroes event in Canton!   We are coming to the Town of Canton on Saturday, November 15th, and we are once again looking for volunteers to join us on this great day of service in partnership with the Canton Veterans' Service Office.   We will go door-to-door that Saturday after a short kickoff ceremony around 9:00 a.m. at the American Legion Post, 950 Washington Street, Canton.   Volunteers will visit neighborhoods to deliver packets of information to local veterans to make them aware of the important benefits and support available to them. We hope you can join us!  Scan the QR code or visit the link below to register. Veterans ( NCSO): Volunteers Needed: House to House for Heroes Canton

Norfolk County Sheriff's Office | 200 West St | Dedham, MA 02027 US

Lyn talks about the Caregivers Appreciation Day scheduled for Friday, Nov 7 at the Franklin Senior Center (audio)

FM #1567 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1567 in the series. 

This session shares my conversation with Lyn O’Brien, Chair of the Council on Aging.  We had our discussion in the Franklin Radio Studio on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.

 

We talk about 

• Her nursing career serving folks at home 

• Caregivers Appreciation Day - Nov 7, 2025 

• 11 AM to 3 PM

• At the Franklin Senior Center

• Free Hourly raffles, 40 + vendors

• Information on taking care of your loved one

Note: Regularly scheduled events at the Senior Center on this day are cancelled to allow this to happen. Thanks to the Town of Franklin & the Senior Center for doing so

The recording runs about 37 minutes, so let’s listen in.

Audio link ->  https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1567-caregivers-

appreciation-day-10-29-25/

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Franklin Senior Center page ->  https://www.franklinma.gov/583/Franklin-Senior-Center-Council-on-Aging 

Caregiver Appreciation Day flyer (download as a reminder or to share)

https://drive.google.com/file/d/17x0RVnpS5X6j9qop_9-bytRZMlA0iKr7/view?usp=drive_link

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We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news 

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy it!

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You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Fish of Franklin seeking volunteers to help drive the community

Fish of Franklin seeking volunteers
to help drive the community

FISH of Franklin is looking for volunteers!

Please see the flyer and reach out to me, or email fishoffranklin@gmail.com if you are interested in volunteering.

Shared from -> 

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18rhduL9ho/

In 2023, we recorded a conversation about their 50th Anniversary and volunteering for FISH of Franklin.  You can listen here ->  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2023/09/have-you-volunteered-with-fish-of.html

Amber Baur shares about her work volunteering for the Franklin Food Pantry (audio)

FM #1519 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1519 in the series. 

This session of the radio show shares my conversation with Amber Baur, Chair of the Board of Directors, for the Franklin Food Pantry. We had our conversation in person in the community room at The Pantry on Monday, September 22, 2025. 

Discussion items: 

Amber Baur

• Amber’s background and road to The Pantry

• Board and subcommittee structure to build a pipeline of talent 

• Strategic & careful expansion of curbside services to neighboring communities

• Many opportunities to be involved to help The Pantry

The conversation runs about 34 minutes. Let’s listen in 

Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1519-franklin-food-pantry-board-chair-amber-baur-09-22-25/

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Franklin Food Pantry web page -> https://www.franklinfoodpantry.org/ 

Follow The Pantry on

Facebook ->  https://www.facebook.com/FranklinFoodPantry 

Instagram ->  https://www.instagram.com/franklinfoodpan/ 

Amazon wishlist ->  https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2SIL7UR08ZZUC?ref_=wl_share 

Greater Boston Food Bank ->  https://www.gbfb.org/ 

--------------

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial.  

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/ or www.franklin.news/

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

------------------

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

Patriot Day - National Day of Service, September 11, 2025

View as a webpage VA National Cemeteries National Day of Service Patriot Day September 11, 2025   Find more information about a cemetery near you: https://www.cem.va.gov/National-Day-of-Service/ You can register here, but not necessary:  https://www.carrytheload.org/patriot-day-national-day-of-service/

Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Cmte has Opportunities to Give Back

The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee is seeking volunteers to join in its leadership roles. If you're passionate about the outdoors, making a difference in our community and connecting with others, we want to hear from you!

Franklin Bellingham Rail Trail Cmte has Opportunities to Give Back

What's the Mission?

The Franklin & Bellingham Rail Trail Committee (FBRTC) is a volunteer advocacy group dedicated to the development, maintenance, and financial support of the Southern New England Rail Trail as a multi-use, universally accessible recreational path.

Here's what some of our volunteers say about being involved!

"The FBRTC has been an outlet for me--a chance to be in the community, doing meaningful things, with great people beside me. The committee's advocacy is a bright spot, and not just for me. I've had several people tell me how important it is for them to have a good, clean, usable trail available. I have a friend that walks it every day, rain or shine, and she thinks about me and 'Cliff's Trail'. I like that. I see the value of that, and the passion that good, outdoor spaces can engender. These are the spaces where life happens!" – Cliff W.

 

"Since joining the Committee, I've established local connections with like-minded people looking to improve the trail and encourage others to enjoy the outdoors. We work together to make improvements to the trail, and currently, I am advocating for benches on the trail! Being part of the FBRTC team has been a rewarding experience." – Sue F.

 

"I first got involved with the FBRTC to help develop the local rail trail and offer outdoor recreation opportunities for myself and my kids. What I received back was much more! Serving on the committee has connected me to neighbors and leaders in my community and has led to friendships both professionally and personally. I feel good giving back, and at the same time helping to create opportunities for people to improve their health and connect with nature." - Marc K.

How You Can Help

Each year, the committee selects volunteer-leaders to maintain and advocate for the Southern New England Trunkline Trail, and your help is critical at this time. Prior experience in nonprofits is important but not required!

To get involved and make a difference, please complete the form. You can also reach out for information by email at fbrtcommittee@gmail.com.

Thank you for your interest in the rail trail effort. We look forward to hearing from you!

The Franklin Cultural Council wants you! Volunteers needed. Apply by July 18

FRIDAY, JULY 18 DEADLINE!

Have you seen the way Franklin bursts with energy when arts programming happens? Do you want to be a part of this energy?

If yes, the Franklin Cultural Council wants you and is currently seeking additional members. Here is the link to the Town of Franklin Volunteer Application:

https://franklinmaboards.vt-s.net/newcaf.php

Please make sure that you select the Franklin Cultural Council and not the Franklin Cultural District Committee. The cultural council is seeking new members. The cultural district is not as it it at it’s member capacity.

The Franklin Cultural Council wants you!
Volunteers needed. Apply by July 18

Many exciting arts and culture offerings are on the horizon. We are seeking additional members to the Franklin Cultural Council to help with these planned future events and to assist in building new opportunities. The 250th birthday of our country and commonwealth happen in 2026 and our town will celebrate 250 years of incorporation in 2028. Volunteer to help the arts be vibrant threads in these celebrations!

Please direct any questions via email to:

FranklinCulturalCouncil02038@gmail.com

Here are some photos of what we have funded and/or assisted with this past year!

FRIDAY, JULY 18 IS THE DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR THE COMING YEAR

Arts and Culture create Community!

#FranklinMACulture

#FranklinMA

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ar2wxiPo2/

Amber Baur Named Chair of Franklin Food Pantry Board of Directors

The Franklin Food Pantry is proud to welcome Amber Baur as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. As a dedicated volunteer and long-time supporter, Amber brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to The Pantry’s mission of combating food insecurity in the community.

Amber's leadership has been instrumental in many of The Pantry's initiatives. She played a pivotal role in ensuring The Pantry's Service Enterprise Certification, a prestigious accreditation awarded by the Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement and Points of Light recognizing a nonprofit’s commitment to effectively delivering on their missions by strategically engaging volunteer time and talent. 

Amber Baur

More recently, she contributed to the nonprofit’s 2024 Strategic Plan, a comprehensive effort to identify community needs and develop sustainable strategies to address them. She volunteers regularly at The Pantry, greeting and assisting clients while they shop, and serves as Captain of The Pantry's Falmouth Road Race Team.

"I am incredibly passionate about the work being done at the Franklin Food Pantry," said Amber. "It is an honor and a privilege to step into this leadership role and collaborate with such a dedicated team to combat hunger and support our neighbors who are facing food insecurity.”

Originally from California, Amber holds both an undergraduate degree in Business Administration and an MBA. She and her family have been residents of Franklin since 2007, and her son attended Franklin Public Schools.

"We're incredibly fortunate to have Amber's expertise and mission-driven leadership on our Board," said Tina Powderly, Executive Director, Franklin Food Pantry. "Her unwavering support for clients, staff, and volunteers is evident in everything she does, and we know that she’ll continue to advance our fight against food insecurity in the community."

For the past year, Amber has been preparing for her new role by serving as Co-chair of the Board of Directors alongside Rachel Flum. Rachel, who chaired the Board from May 2023 to June 2024, and then served as Co-chair from July 2024 to June 2025, recently concluded her term. Board member Judi Perez also finished her term. Both Rachel and Judi’s dedication and hard work were essential to The Pantry’s achievements over the past few years, and they will be greatly missed. 

About the Franklin Food Pantry, Inc.

The Franklin Food Pantry, Inc. offers supplemental food assistance, household necessities, and resource referrals to more than 1,800 individuals per year. The Pantry relies on donations and grants to purchase items and pay for daily operations, and partnerships with The Greater Boston Food Bank, Spoonfuls, and local grocery stores to achieve greater buying power and lower costs. 

Programs include Inside Shopping, Curbside Pickup, Emergency Food Boxes, Mobile Pantries, Home Delivery, Kids’ Snack Bags, Weekend Backpacks, Holiday Meals, and the SNAP match at Franklin Farmers Market. The Pantry is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in good standing in Massachusetts, recognized by Charity Navigator as a Four-Star Charity, and awarded GuideStar’s Platinum Transparency ranking. The Pantry is located at 341 W Central St. in Franklin, MA on Route 140. Please visit www.franklinfoodpantry.org for more information.