Here are three easy steps to finding a volunteer opportunity that’s right for you:
Step 1: Reflect
There are numerous reasons to volunteer your time and energy. Do you want to give back to your community or be a part of something bigger than yourself? Perhaps volunteering is a family tradition or you’re looking to make new social connections. Spend some time thinking about what volunteering means to you. What do you hope to gain in exchange for your time?
Step 2: Do your homework
Your time is valuable. It’s worth the effort to research any charity or nonprofit organization you are considering for a volunteer opportunity.
- Check the website: Does the Volunteer section include job descriptions with dates and times for shifts? Is there an orientation session for volunteers? An orientation session can provide insight about whether the opportunity is a good fit for you.
- Drop by: If you drop by the organization, even for five minutes, you’ll get a better idea of what it might be like to volunteer there. How do they treat people coming in the door?
- Visit VolunteerMatch: This site allows you to search for volunteer opportunities near you. Then, you can connect with a cause that needs you.
Two schools of thought
As part of your decision process, consider how you want to spend your time. Doing something you love and know or trying something new. Both approaches are valid. If you volunteer for a cause that you genuinely care about, you’ll connect with like-minded people who share your values. On the other hand, if you volunteer to do something outside your skill set, you can gain a fresh perspective. My passion is gardening, but I’d rather do kitchen prep (with the opportunity to learn and work with a chef) than weed a garden that’s not my own.
Step 3: Commit
You’ve done your homework. Now it’s time to take action! Complete the volunteer application and attend the volunteer orientation. Then you need to show up and do some good.
Source(s):
“Why Volunteering Is Important in a Personal and Professional Capacity,” Indeed (indeed.com), February 22, 2021
