How to Recognize Women Who Make a Difference

(Continued …)

1) Research the causes and issues important to you.
Look for a group centered around issues you feel strongly about. You might already be giving money to one of these organizations and that might be a good place to begin your volunteer experience. If you can’t find such an organization, why not start one yourself?

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 incorporates these aspects of your personality. Many positions require a volunteer who has previous familiarity with certain equipment like computers, or who possesses specific skills, such as an ability in athletics or communications.

3) Try something new.
Perhaps you would like to learn a new skill or gain exposure to a new situation. Consider a volunteer opportunity where you’ll learn something new. For example, volunteering to work on the newsletter for the local animal shelter will improve your writing and editing abilities — skills that may help you in your career.

4) Combine your goals.
Look for volunteer opportunities that can also help you achieve your other goals. For example, if you want to lose a few extra pounds, pick an active volunteer opportunity such as cleaning a park or working with kids. If you’ve been meaning to take a cooking class, try volunteering at a food bank that teaches cooking skills.

5) Don’t over commit your schedule.
Make sure the volunteer hours you want to give fit into your hectic life, so you don’t exhaust yourself, frustrate your family, shortchange the organization you’re trying to help, or neglect your job.

6) Consider volunteering as a family.
Think about looking for a volunteer opportunity suitable for parents and children to do together, or for a husband and wife to take on as a team. When a family volunteers together at a nonprofit organization, the experience can bring them closer and teach young children the value of giving their time and effort.

7) Curious about virtual volunteering?
If you have computer access and the necessary skills, some organizations now offer the opportunity to do volunteer work over the computer. This might take the form of giving free legal advice or typing a college term paper for a person with a disability. 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.

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