Tips For Volunteering
Time Commitment
Are you looking for a volunteer position where you serve a few hours each week, one where you serve occasionally as needed, or a full-time opportunity where you dedicate a year to service? When selecting a volunteer opportunity, consider the amount of time you can realistically devote on a regular basis, and for what length of time overall.
Opportunities that are more intense in nature will often ask that you make a one-year commitment, and will vary in the number of hours per week you are asked to serve (1-40 hours per week). Other opportunities may be one-time events, or on a periodic basis over an extended period of time. Knowing the amount of time you can, and are willing, to serve will help you select a volunteer opportunity that will suit your needs.
Service You Would Like to Provide
Do you want to work with children or the elderly? Do you want to focus your efforts on a particular issue area, such as the environment, education, or homelessness? Do you want to serve people directly, complete administrative tasks, or do physical labor? Determining the type of service you'd like to provide will help you narrow your choices and find an opportunity that meets your interests.
Skills and Talents
Do you have a special set of skills that you'd like to utilize during your service experience, or are you interested in developing new skills? Many volunteer opportunities will provide a chance for you to utilize special skills or talents. In others, you can try something completely new and develop a new skill.
Support Structures
Will you need assistance with transportation? Will you need training in order to successfully complete your volunteer service? The answer to these and other similar questions should be considered when selecting your opportunity. Some volunteer organizations will provide monetary or in-kind support when you serve, such as bus passes, transportation reimbursement, or complimentary meals. Most will provide some type of training program. Adequate training can be a critical factor in ensuring a successful volunteer experience, particularly if you are new to the type of service you will be providing.
Getting Involved
Once you have narrowed your choices, contact the organization and find out about their application process. In addition, you should ask questions regarding other requirements, including background checks, fingerprinting (for those serving with children), and driving records. If a background check is a requirement, determine if you will need to pay for it, and approximately how long it will take for you to be cleared to begin your service. If the process is a lengthy one and you want to get started right away, you might want to pursue other opportunities.