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The first step to finding a great volunteer opportunity has little to do with volunteering; think of an activity that you enjoy doing, one you're really good at, or or one that will help you develop
a desired skill for school or work.
Next, brainstorm ways you can link your interests to a
volunteer project. In nearly all cases you will be able to do this. For
example, I love to travel. Consequently, I focus my volunteer work on
international efforts, primarily in the developing world.
Many of the people I have worked with were initially
skeptical; they did not believe that their interests could be used to help
other people. Nearly everyone has been pleasantly surprised to find that they
were mistaken. It just takes a bit of creativity and brainstorming to link your
interests to a volunteer project.
To help you get started I have created a list of
activities and interests with examples of how they can be applied
to volunteer service. I have also provided ideas on how to start finding these
opportunities. Admittedly, some of the suggested interests are unusual. This
was done to illustrate that with a bit of thought, you can match
your passions to a volunteer project.
Playing tennis:
consider volunteering in an after school sports program that works with
children from low-income areas in your community. By teaching these children to
play tennis you will be helping them stay healthy and out of trouble. You can
find opportunities by contacting your public school system or community center.
Throwing sweet parties:
you could volunteer as an event coordinator for a local charity. You’ll be able
to help them pack their fundraisers and galas with interesting people. You can
find a charity to work with by looking in the phone directory, by asking other
people for suggestions, or by looking online.
Learning to cook:
Volunteer as a sous chef at a local soup kitchen or homeless shelter. Though
the meals you prepare may not be gourmet you will gain valuable experience.
You will also learn how to prepare low-cost dishes, which I believe is a
valuable skill for any college student or recent grad. These organizations can
be found by looking online.
Checking Facebook:
If your passion really is checking Facebook, you can put your skills to work
for others by volunteering in, or starting, a computer literacy program. Though
you may have to start with the basics like word processing before you get to
the finer parts of Facebook, you really will be helping people develop valuable
skills. Contact your town hall to see if such a program already exists. If not ask about how to get funding to begin one.
Graphic Design: Find a charity whose website or marketing is in need of a major facelift and
then help them craft a new image. You can find a charity to work with by asking
your friends, family and acquaintances, by looking online, or by contacting a
local volunteer bureau.
Contemplating Existentialism: If the different ways people lead their lives intrigues you then
consider volunteering as a listener for people who cannot afford mental health
services. The job of a listener is to be present for someone who needs to talk.
You may also be able to volunteer for a suicide prevention hot line. Contact
the psychology department of a local college to find opportunities.
Working with kids:
Daycare and homework-help programs do wonders for the development of children,
especially those in low-income areas where these opportunities are not as
abundant. Consider volunteering in one of these programs. Opportunities can be
found online, by contacting your local school system, or by contacting local
daycare centers and asking for recommendations.
Woodworking: You can
volunteer with an organization like Habitat for Humanity that builds housing
for low-income families. These opportunities can be found by searching online
or by asking a local handyman. Check out Habitat for Humanity's website for the nearest local chapter.
With a bit of reflection and creativity you will be able to
match your interests and passions to volunteer projects. If you are stuck, ask
your friends to help you brainstorm. You are also welcome to contact me for
ideas. By doing this you will be helping others lead better lives while also
creating a more fulfilling and enjoyable life for yourself. All that remains is
for you to take action.
This is the second in a two part series on becoming a
volunteer. If you missed the first part on embracing your power, you can read
it here. | 