With so many great nonprofit organizations doing important work in Norristown, it's hard for us to play favorites — Norristown needs them all. But here are a few of the groups Norristown Patch has been working closely with over the last few weeks. We think they're definitely worth your attention.

The Patrician Society, 701 Green St., 610-272-6316

Who they are and what they do: The Patrician Society is a nonprofit, non-sectarian charitable organization dedicated to helping the less fortunate. They run the county's largest emergency food cupboard, help folks in need with rental and utilities assistance, and run a low-cost summer camp for area kids.

How you can help: The Patrician Society has an army of dedicated volunteers to help run the food cupboard but they can always use help collecting food and raising money. Contributions are tax deductible, and if you can't donate cash, you can always hold a canned food drive and donate the collection to the food cupboard.

The ACPPA Community Art Center, 506 Haws Ave., 484-681-4847

Who they are and what they do: The ACPPA Community Art Center is dedicated to improving the quality of life for Norristown residents by offering diverse learning opportunities in the arts. The center wants to help children and adults nurture their creative self expression by offering classes in fine arts, crafts, dance, acting, music and more.

How you can help: The ACPPA holds several shows and public fundraisers throughout the year. You can bring your family to an event, and even sign up to become a member of the center. There are a variety of classes for all age groups and skill sets.

Greater Norristown Police Athletic League, 340 Harding Blvd., 610-278-8040

Who they are and what they do: The Greater Norristown Police Athletic League (GNPAL) is a volunteer organization serving the Norristown community with recreational, educational and cultural programs. GNPAL has an array of sports leagues, and its programs focus on teaching citizenship, avoidance of substance abuse, building self-esteem, and respect for law and order.

How you can help: You have to be a GNPAL member to participate in leagues, classes or programs, but the folks at PAL accept donations and are always looking for volunteers to help with programs and the sports league.

ACLAMO Family Center, 512 W. Marshall St., 610-277-2570

Who they are and what they do: ACLAMO stands for Accíon Comunal Latino Americano de Montgomery County (or the Latin American Action Committee of Montgomery County), and the organization provides educational, health, economic, social and cultural services to low-income individuals and families in Montgomery County, especially those of Spanish-speaking heritage. ACLAMO is particularly active with helping young children whose first language is not English learn the skills they need to succeed in school. 

How you can help: Like most nonprofits, ACLAMO accepts donations to help defray the cost of operations, but they also welcome volunteers from all walks of life to get involved in their mission and their programs.

The Interagency Council of Norristown, 610-270-2902

Who they are and what they do: The Interagency Council of Norristown (ICN) is a collaborative of organizations and individuals in the human service industry. Their primary focus is to improve the delivery of and access to human services in the central Montgomery County area. They believe personal contact between different agencies and the free exchange of information will only help to better serve those in need. The ICN holds regular informational and networking meetings, as well as educational programs that are open to the public. They also publish a comprehensive directory of social service agencies operating in Montgomery County.

How you can help: Check the ICN website for a schedule of meetings and programs, and come meet up with like-minded folks who are trying to help those in need find the services that can help. You can even become a full-fledged member and contribute to the ongoing mission.