By Eric Slagle
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Nine years ago, Charlene Graham, of Elizabeth, saw a billboard that Auberle's foster grandparent program was looking for volunteers.

"It tore at my heartstrings," recalled Ms. Graham, who responded to the sign and has been volunteering ever since with the organization that serves abused, neglected and troubled children and families in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties.

It wasn't surprising then to find Ms. Graham, who works for PNC, behind the booth of a company-sponsored carnival game at Auberle's 21st annual Festival of Fun last Thursday at the agency's main campus on Hartman Street in McKeesport.

About 125 children ages 8 to 12 from Auberle and similar agencies attended the event that was primarily sponsored by unions of the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO.

The unions supplied volunteers and donated food, games and prizes. The event was held in conjunction with the AFL-CIO's 48th Annual Community Services Institute.

Joe Delale, a United Way labor liaison from the Allegheny County Labor Council, said unions were pleased to be there.

"We want to help children," he said. "We've really taken a fondness to Auberle."

Auberle, a faith-based organization, offers various services to at-risk families and children, including residential programs, parenting education, foster care training, drug and alcohol treatment and 24-hour emergency shelter.

Auberle volunteer coordinator Peggy Frye said the organization is always looking for volunteers, whether they be students, adults or senior citizens. Training for volunteers is available. For more information, call 412-673-5800 x257.