The Right Opportunity for You

Volunteering can be an exciting, growing, enjoyable experience. It is truly gratifying to serve a cause, work with people, solve problems, see benefits and know one had a hand in them. There are many volunteer assignments available and you should find the one that best matches you. Start by thinking the following questions:

What issues matter the most to you?

Do you know what organizations address these issues in your community? Do you think they are doing a good job and deserve your support? Are you concerned about a cause that no one else seems to be tackling? All these questions will help you to focus on the type of organization you want to approach with your offer to volunteer.

Do I want to volunteer for something that uses the skills I apply in my paying work or do I want to do something completely different?

What types of things are you good at (and like to do)? These can be professional skills or hobbies and recreational talents. Every type of skill is needed somewhere. Keep in mind that some volunteer positions will require prior knowledge of tasks (such as working with a computer), but there are a lot of volunteer assignments needing people skill, such as the ability to be a good listener, non-judgmental, cherry and supportive.

Do I want an ongoing, regular scheduled assignment, or a short-term assignment?

Some volunteer assignments do require a lot of time, and others can be accomplished in a short period of time, even one day. The organization will need to know that they can count on you to maintain your scheduled work and later expand your schedule, rather than promising many hours that you later will not be able to give.

As a volunteer you not only impact people’s lives but you also strengthen your community. Call me and together we can find your perfect volunteer opportunity!

Galia Thompson
Volunteer Center Director