After all your fun and games at singles bars, networking parties, hookah lounges, and clubs, for me to suggest volunteering as a viable option for making friends and, perhaps, meeting Mr. or Ms. Right, may sound like a dull alternative. Now! Now! Don't sling this magazine across the room and utter an unprintable word. Admit this: when you're mingling in almost all of the above places you're among an eclectic crowd. You have no guarantee that, out of those you run across, even one of them could permanently fit into your lifestyle. Chances are if you meet someone you like, your standards of behavior, level of education, habits, interests and long-term goals might be so diverse you wouldn't be able to maintain a close relationship for an extended period no matter how much you wanted.

On the other hand becoming a volunteer has the advantage of pre-selecting the type of persons you'll encounter. In fact it can land you slap bang in the middle of colleagues who have the very same interests and background as you and, additionally, give you an opportunity to chat with hundreds of like-minded visitors. When I was docent at the New York Botanical Garden, people from all over the world dropped by. They either enjoyed the natural beauty and variety of plantings in the glass pavilion and grounds, or were avid gardeners, or botanists by profession—not types who would trample on flower-beds or toss candy wrappers into the bushes. Gilda, a docent at the Las Vegas Art Museum, meets genial people who appreciate art just as she does herself. Anne, a vivacious, well-built woman, willingly toils for Metro Police. I cannot suggest that those who unlawfully park in handicapped spaces whoop with joy when she comes within their vision to write a ticket. Nevertheless, the good-humored manner in which she relates her adventures takes her conversation level way above the mundane and contributes to her ever-present popularity. Besides she receives regular training in important aspects of law enforcement that feeds her desire to keep on learning. A young guy delights in joining early morning groups who pick up trash at Red Rock Canyon. "The best mixer in Vegas," he told me. "Most of us are single, we're all healthy, strong and game for a good hike and my presence is as valuable to my social life as it is to the environment."

If you have sparse knowledge of the subject matter or too little freedom to participate in free training sessions that are usually required of docents at museums, guides for historical sites, attendants for parks, and tour leaders, at 3- or 6-month intervals, there are less taxing positions available. These are for greeters, house showers, dance partners, ushers at shows and concerts, checkers-in at charity dinner-dances, receptionists at senior centers, aides at health facilities, hospitals, animal societies, and more. Some pay a small stipend.

As long as one is agile, age is rarely a factor. Beauty is not important. Good grooming and the ability to look neat in your own attire, or supplied uniform, are essential. The ability to speak clearly in acceptable language, and possession of a courteous, helpful and pleasant personality are musts. If you have these basics and are anxious to perform in a professional manner right from the beginning, rather than learn from mistakes as you go along, my leaflet "How To Be Outstanding As A Tour Guide Or Docent" is choc-a-bloc with proven methods and valuable tips.

The RJ newspaper lists "Volunteer Opportunities" from time to time. 1-800-volunteer or, on the internet, www.1-800-volunteer.org provides details of openings. At this very minute Hurrydate is seeking a host or hostess to be paid to run their regular speed-dating events in plush venues in Las Vegas and/or Henderson. Work with us; Be a host; and complete application form. Spring Mountain Ranch [875-4141] is recruiting volunteers, so is the Security Patrol at Sun City, Summerlin [254-2303]. The Professional Golf Association [898-4653 Kay Williamson] also seeks help for the Takefuji Classic to be held from April 12–15^th at the Las Vegas Country Club. Those accepted will receive a clubhouse badge worth $50 and lunch every day. Others offer perks too. Whenever JoAnne mans the booth for Channel 10, situated in the lobby at UNLV where the Las Vegas Philharmonic is playing, she receives a seat at the concert. Art, an MGM usher, not only gets paid but sees all the big-name shows. Many organizations hold parties for helpers, especially around holiday time.

Sometimes those who want to become attached but have been on the singles carousel too long emanate a sense of desperation that is a definite turn-off for prospects. This can be offset by becoming genuinely absorbed in a worthwhile cause. It will occupy your mind, and give direction to your actions regardless of whether you meet anybody special or not. Furthermore it will take you into the proximity of active men and women with similar leanings and goals. In that way you circulate in a milieu that is conducive to meeting many individuals who are suitable for blending into your customary lifestyle and, from among them, possibly find a soul mate with whom to build a glorious future.