Don't Know What to Do?
Ten Tips for Wise Volunteering

1. Research the causes or issues important to you.

Look for a group that deals with issues about which you feel strongly.  You might already be giving money to one of these organizations, and that might be a good place to begin your volunteer experience.  You can also search the website for opportunities that might intrigue you or help you gain exposure to the issues you care about.  There is no end to the creative avenues for volunteering, just as there is no end to the need for volunteers. 

2. Consider the skills you have to offer.

If you enjoy outdoor work, have a knack for teaching, or just enjoy interacting with people, you may want to look for volunteer work that would incorporate these aspects of your personality.  Many positions require a volunteer who has previous familiarity with certain equipment, such as computers, or who possess certain skills, such as ability in athletics or communications.  

3. Consider volunteering as a family.

When a family volunteers to work together at a nonprofit organization, the experience can bring them closer together, teach young children the value of giving their time ad effort, introduce everyone in the family to skills and experiences never before encountered, and give the entire family a shared experience as a wonderful family memory. 

4. Would you like to learn something new?

Perhaps you would like to move into areas that will provide you with novelty or change.  Many nonprofits seek out people who are willing to learn, especially if the needs they serve are specialized or unique. 

5. Don’t over-commit your schedule.

Make sure the volunteer hours you want to give fit into your hectic life, so that you don’t frustrate you family, exhaust yourself, shortchange the organization you’re trying to help or neglect your day job.  Better to start out slowly than to commit yourself to a schedule you can’t – or don’t want to – fulfill.

6. Nonprofits may have questions, too.

While most nonprofits are eager to find volunteer help, they have to be careful when accepting the services you offer.  If you express interest in an opportunity, you may be asked to come in for an interview, fill out a volunteer application or complete a background check.  It is in the organization’s interest to make certain you have the skills they need, that you are truly committed to doing the work, and that your interests match those of the nonprofit.

7. I never thought of that!

Many community groups that are looking for volunteers may not have occurred to you.  Here are some volunteer opportunities which may not have crossed your mind:

  • Day care centers

  • Soup kitchens or food banks

  • Shelters or prisons

  • Public schools and colleges

  • Community theatres

  • Libraries or museums

  • Drug rehabilitation centers

  • Neighborhood or state parks

  • Youth organizations, sports teams and after school programs

  • Historical landmarks or restorations

  • Fund raising

  • … and many more! Explore the website! 

8. Give voice to your heart through your giving and volunteering!

Bring your sense of humor to your volunteer service, along with the enthusiastic spirit which is, in itself, a priceless gift!  What you’ll get back will be immeasurable! 

9. Virtual volunteering?

Yes, there is such a thing!  If you have computer access and the necessary skills, some organizations now offer the opportunity to do volunteer work over the computer.  This sort of volunteering might be well-suited to you if you have limited time, no transportation, or a physical disability that precludes you from getting about freely.

  

10. Be a year-round volunteer!

We all tend to think more of those in need during the holidays; but volunteering is welcome and necessary all year.  We all need to be aware that making our communities better is a 365-day-a-year responsibility… and there is always something we could be doing to help! 

Source: Independent Sector, Give Five brochure