Ray Bullock, Cornelia Rutherford and Steven Loy preview auditions for the Virginia Renaissance Faire, with opportunities for performers of all ages to get involved. Auditions are set for March 7 at the Salem Church Library and March 21 at the Howell Branch Library, both running from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Participants should bring a short script to read. The group also discusses how improv builds confidence, quick thinking and real-world communication skills that carry far beyond the stage. Learn more at varf.org.

Director Carson Eubank joins Sarah Mae Anderson, who plays Meg, and Ashlee Beary, who stars as Jo, to preview Little Women the musical at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts. The beloved story of the March sisters comes to life on stage March 18 through April 26. The team shares what makes this adaptation both timeless and deeply moving for today’s audiences. For tickets and more information, visit riversidedt.com.

Beau Dails and Abby Farley discuss the growing reach of Special Olympics Virginia and the athletes preparing to compete at the State Basketball Championships this weekend in Henrico. Beau participates in nearly every sport offered and recently took the plunge into the Atlantic Ocean to help raise critical funds. Abby coaches the Bulldogs, one of many teams representing their communities at the state level. Organizers say volunteers and spectators are essential to making the championships possible. They also outline opportunities to get involved locally through Area 11. More information is available at specialolympicsva.org.

Heather Cohen and Cait Woodward say the need to support homeless families in our community is immediate — and growing. Right now, they are urgently seeking the donation of a pickup truck to help transport supplies and serve families in need; if you have one to give or know someone who does, they’re asking you to contact Cait as soon as possible. There’s also a $115,000 matching grant in place through the end of March, meaning every dollar donated will go twice as far. In addition, there’s an ongoing shelter wish list, volunteer opportunities, and prevention programs aimed at keeping families housed before they fall into crisis.  loiosannshopehouse.org

After weeks of winter weather forced dozens of blood drive cancellations, American Red Cross officials say the need for donors is now critical. Alexis Innis says when drives are canceled, patients still need transfusions — surgeries, cancer treatments, and emergencies don’t get postponed. She reminds people you never want to be in a situation where blood is needed and simply isn’t available. The Red Cross is asking donors to set aside about 90 minutes to give, a small commitment that can help save multiple lives. Appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org.

UMW Professors Elizabeth Johnson-Young and Michael Stebar join us to preview the University of Mary Washington’s Summer Enrichment Program. It’s a six-day, pre-college experience for rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors — giving students a real taste of college coursework and campus life. Participants live on campus and take classes taught by UMW faculty, getting a firsthand look at what college could be like. The application deadline is March 20. Learn more at umw.edu/summer/sep

UMW Museums Executive Director Scott Harris joins us to talk about a special Valentine’s Day weekend at two historic sites — a Saturday evening dinner at Gari Melchers Home and Studio and a unique Sunday program at the James Monroe Museum--Tea and Trifles. We’ll also discuss federal funds for the Papers of James Monroe and what it means for preserving history. Plus, a preview of upcoming Great Lives lectures.

Anne Little from the Virginia Bluebird Society and Tree Fredericksburg joins us to talk all things bluebirds — and a free Bluebird program coming up February 28th at the downtown library. We’ll also highlight the Spring Free Seedlings Giveaway with Tree Fredericksburg and why planting the right trees matters. Plus, a conversation about unintended consequences in conservation and how you can take part in the Backyard Bird Count beginning Friday.  treefredericksburg.org    virginiabluebirds.org

Erin Perkins and Anthony Salgado from the Rappahannock Area Health District join us to talk about how the Medical Reserve Corps steps up during local health emergencies — and the many other ways volunteers support the community throughout the year. They share how the Corps strengthens public health efforts locally and why more volunteers are needed across a wide range of opportunities. We also discuss timely health concerns, including flu season, rabies awareness, and measles prevention.

Dr. Chris Vaughn and Dr. Sudeep Menachery with Hematology Oncology Associates of Fredericksburg join us to talk about cancer care close to home. We discuss the latest advances in treatment, the challenges facing modern medicine, and why access to high-quality local care matters. HOAF is an independently-owned practice — and we break down what that actually means for patients. More information at hoafredericksburg.com.