Step 1: Write down three things you are passionate about
Some of you are thinking, easy – done! What’s the next step.
For those of you that aren’t so sure, here’s a great way to figure it out. Take a moment to think about the moments so far in your life that have made you the most excited, where you accomplished something you were very proud of, a moment that you will always remember. Write those moments down. Now, ask yourself “Why” each of those moments jump out. What was the result or skill that corresponded to the moment? Lastly, write the passion that fits with that result.
Step 2: Determine the amount of time you have to give
Grab your calendar and look at the next two weeks and ask yourself how much time do I have to commit to volunteering? Write down the amount of time.
If you’re like me you’re thinking I don’t have any time. That’s the problem. If I had time, I’d already be volunteering. Right? Try this, write down how much time you will be working, spending with the kids, and/or with your husband over the next two weeks. Can any of that time become volunteer time? Many work places support volunteering and there are lots of opportunities to volunteer with your kids. Still have NO time? Is that really a ZERO, ZIP or possibly 1 or 2 hours? You can still make an impact with a small amount of time.
Making a donation is also a great way to help an organization championing a cause you are passionate about and takes less than 5 minutes!
Step 3: Find a volunteer opportunity
Take your passion to the web! There are many websites that will help you find volunteer opportunities that match your passion and time availability. Use these sites to help you determine three possible volunteer opportunities, but do not commit your time just yet.
http://www.volunteermatch.org/ : find opportunities by geographic location and cause category (Nationwide)
http://givingdupage.org/ : search for opportunities to get involved based on your own interests, by geography or by a specific type of need (DuPage County, IL)
https://www.google.com/ (You can always “Google it”)
https://www.insideoutclub.org/ :volunteer with your kids
Step 4: Do your research
As you’re looking at possible opportunities, “do your research.” Where are they located? Is that too far? Can I bring my kids? Are there volunteer testimonials or additional information on their website? Can I see myself there? These questions will help you choose the best opportunity.
Step 5: Tell Someone About It
After you’ve found an opportunity and scheduled it, tell someone about it. It’ll make you that much more excited and committed.
Hi,
I found your advice very helpful as, like a of people I want to contribute but don’t know where to start. Your advice helped me to focus and to see where my skills/passions lie. I didn’t realise your website was in USA, I live in Scotland but it didn’t matter as the information was universal.
Many thanks and best wishes,
A potential volunteer.
I’m so glad you found this helpful. Thanks for letting us know. Good luck finding the right volunteer opportunity for you!
Hi there, thank you very much for this post 🙂
I am trying to promote volunteering in Bulgaria in general and first steps are crucial to get people involved and even may be engage them for long-term commitment. I find this post very helpful giving me info to use when approach people. Thanks.
I am looking for a volunteer opportunity in Albuquerque, NM. I am a FNP and can help with health issues as well as education and caring.