Helpful Hints on Volunteering

Anita Klopfenstein and the Enterprise team at the MS 150

Volunteering: How to Get Started

• Assess what you want to get out of the experience: Research the causes or issues important to you. Look for a group that works with issues about which you feel strongly.
• Consider the skills you have to offer: Many positions require volunteers who are familiar with special equipment, such as computers, or who possess certain skills, such as accounting or fund-raising. Volunteer experiences might involve skills that you already have and enjoy using.
• Be ready to learn something new: Consider seeking a volunteer opportunity that allows you to learn a new skill or gain exposure to a new situation. For example, volunteering to work on a newsletter for a local nonprofit will improve your writing and editing abilities. Volunteering can also offer a change from your daily routine. For example, if your full-time job is in an office, you might decide to work at an outdoor festival for a change of pace.
• Combine your goals: Look for volunteer opportunities that will help you achieve the other goals in your life. For example, if you've been meaning to take a cooking class, try volunteering at a local food bank that teaches cooking skills.
• Don't overcommit your schedule: Make sure the hours you want to volunteer fit into your hectic schedule so that your volunteer experience does not add more stress to your life. Do you want a temporary job or a long-term assignment? If you are unsure about your availability, or want to see how an opportunity suits you before you make a long-term commitment, start out by working a limited number of hours until you feel that it is a good fit for you. It's better to start out slowly than to commit yourself to a schedule you can't keep.
• Be prepared to answer questions: While most nonprofits are eager to find volunteer help, they have to be careful when accepting the services you offer. If you contact an organization with an offer to donate time, you may be asked to come in for an interview, fill out a volunteer application, and describe your qualifications and your background — just as you would at an interview for a paying job. It is in the best interest of the organization and the people it serves to make certain that you have the skills needed, that you are truly committed to doing the work, and that your interests match those of the nonprofit. Furthermore, in volunteer work involving children or other at-risk populations, there are legal ramifications for the organization to consider.
• Consider volunteering as a family: Think about looking for a volunteer opportunity suitable for both parents and children, or for a husband and wife to tackle as a team. Volunteering can bring a family closer together, teach young children the value of giving their time and effort, introduce everyone in the family to skills and experiences never before encountered and give the entire family a shared experience that will become a treasured memory.
• Try 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, typing a college term paper for a person with a disability or simply keeping in contact with a shut-in via e-mail. This sort of volunteering might be well suited to you if you have limited time, no transportation, or a physical disability that prevents you from getting around freely. Virtual volunteering can also be a way for you to give your time if you simply enjoy computers and want to employ your computer skills for volunteer work.

Do Your Homework

Once you have identified a volunteer opportunity, it's a good idea to consider the following:

• Visiting the agency: Use the opportunity to talk with staff, as well as current volunteers. Determine whether you feel comfortable in the agency's environment.
• Volunteer coordinators: Does the organization have someone assigned specifically to volunteer coordination? Working with a person dedicated to volunteer coordination will help ensure that both you and the organization get the full benefit of your assistance.
• Good communication: Does the nonprofit respond quickly and efficiently to your questions? Does it keep you informed? Lack of communication is often cited as a primary reason for "bad" volunteer experiences.
• Clear plan: For longer and more involved volunteer activities, always work with a clear plan and time line so that both you and the nonprofit know exactly what is expected of each other and agree on the full scope of your responsibilities.

Once you have accepted a volunteer position, commit yourself to completing the assignment. Bring your enthusiasm and a sense of humor; it will make an impact on the people around you. Good luck with your volunteer experience, and have a great time! Your time and commitment make a real difference in your community.