Could you be a volunteer?

Could you be a volunteer?
In the present tough financial times there is a revived spirit of volunteerism. Volunteers have always been hard working, but now even more people are feeling that it is time for them to get involved with groups they care about. Whether it’s an hour; a day, a week or even a year you have to give, here are a few tips to help you find your perfect volunteer opportunity.
You may think volunteering would be a nice thing to do, but is that really enough. Do you feel strongly about a particular problem or issue? You might start, but will you stick with it?
If you feel strongly about something, such as animals, homelessness, women's rights, poverty in your city, or helping children, then that is a very good sign and could be the start of your volunteer experience.
Do you want something that is short and infrequent? Or could you donate a certain amount of time each week or month? There are volunteer opportunities that can fit almost any time commitment.
Make a list of the things you are good at so that you can share them with any volunteer co-ordinators you may talk with. For example, people with good computer knowledge are always in high demand, as are - equally - those with the ability to do detailed book-keeping; a talent with the written word or public speaking, to hands-on skills like wood-working and sewing.
You can get an idea of what volunteer opportunities are out there on line or by contacting your local groups who deal with the issues you care about. Ask what volunteer opportunities exist currently and what might be available.
Initially you can contact a few organizations and then visit them in person. This way you'll meet with a volunteer coordinator and get a good idea of how the non-profit sector works and how volunteer opportunities that are available could fit in with your goals.
Volunteer work should not be entirely selfless - be open to change. You may be challenged by having to deal with people who are less educated than yourself, from different backgrounds, and who are a different colour.
However, your pre-conceived ideas will probably crumble as you witness the dignity of all people no matter their circumstances. These challenges are healthy ones and will result in your own personal growth if you persevere rather than run away at your first glimpse of life as others live it.
Think about what you like to do. Are you a "take charge" kind of person? Would you be happy knocking on doors or stuffing envelopes? It is important that you enjoy what you are doing so that you will continue doing it.
If you work for a high-powered corporation, you may get impatient with the way things are done. Look for leadership opportunities such as helping with fundraising, or organizing events.
If you work with things instead of people, you may have to rethink how you operate. Working with people and their problems takes a different and more patient mindset. Try to refrain from telling them how to do their job.
Boredom and impatience with the process are the biggest threats to a fulfilling volunteer experience. Some organisations will be disorganized and ill-prepared for volunteers; however do try to refrain from telling them how to do their job.
On the other hand, you might want something less intellectually challenging. How about cleaning up a vacant lot or planting a garden or even signing people up for a charity run?
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