Want to Volunteer?

Ever wanted to volunteer, but didn’t know where to even start figuring out how or where or when?

Well, I’m here to help.  I’ve done your grunt work for you, basically.  You’re welcome.

First, I wanted to give a couple of my own tips on volunteering:

1.  If you don’t have a lot of time to give, choose to volunteer for a specific event held by the charity(ies) or community organization(s) of your choice.

2.  If you do have some free time and you want to spend it bettering your community and the people and businesses in it, maybe you should look into serving on non-profit committees.  Those events for one-time volunteers don’t plan themselves!

There is A LOT of information to sort through out there.  So below is some basic information on volunteering and then below that, you can find a visual where I’ve attempted to break down volunteer opportunities to help you with your decision.  Make sure to check out the bolded dates so you don’t miss an event!

Tips for Volunteering:

·         Research the causes or issues important to you.

·         Consider the skills you have to offer.

·         Look for opportunities that will also help you achieve other goals for your life.

·         Don't over-commit your schedule.

·         Nonprofits may have questions, too.  Be prepared for a potential interview.

·         Consider volunteering as a family.

·         Look into virtual volunteering.   Some organizations now offer the opportunity to do volunteer work over the computer. 

Benefits from volunteering:

·         Feel needed

·         Share a skill

·         Get to know a community

·         Gain leadership skills

·         Make an impact

·         Learn something new

·         Be challenged

·         Make new friends

·         Explore a career

·         Do something different

·         Earn academic credit

·          Sharpen skills

·         Feel good

·         Be part of a team

·         Build your resume

Of course, there are many many many more organizations that need volunteers and I encourage you to comment on this entry with that information to share with other readers.   

You may also contact me at any time if you need more information or contact information for a particular organization.  

I am passionate about getting involved in my community and love to hearing stories about experiences volunteering.  So, please share!