Getting the Most out of Volunteering
Volunteering can be a HUGE asset to your work and enhance your skill sets. You can “fill in the blanks” during lay-offs by volunteering and meet a new set of interesting engaged co-workers. Volunteer associations can offer many benefits to those who participate in the actual associations activities.
There are so many types of organizations!
o Local Community Support organizations – Junior Achievement, Habitat for Humanity, CERT (Community Emergency Response), Soup Kitchens
o Professional Organizations
Business Support/Professional: American Society of Training and Development
Alumni Organizations: e.g. SFSU Alumni Association, CAL Alumni
User-groups: Java Users Group, STC (Society for Technical Communicators), Word-Press Users Group, Oracle Users Group
Web-based Communities of Practice: .net Developer’s Journal (.net Addict BLOG)
o Community-based Service Organizations :
Youth-oriented Organizations – YMCA, Big Brothers, Girl Scouts
Special-needs Populations – United Way, Habitat for Humanity
o Users Groups based on a specific Idea or Issue:
PTA -Parent – Teacher Organizations, Homeowners’ Associations, and many other personal groups, such as, Dog / Cat Rescue, Golden Gate Lab Rescue, Save the Bay
Step 1: Find the RIGHT organization
- Conduct an Internet search or ask around, your friends and community members are a great resource. Look at Craig’s list, they often post volunteer slots.
- Determine what the organization has to offer and how many hours/days they need.
- Interview existing members to learn more, you can also ask a “shadow” a volunteer.
- Explore ways you can participate, there are often many positions to choose from.
Step 2: Determine how you want to participate
- Consider your personal goals and desired benefits.
- Identify ways to help you achieve goals and benefits.
- Determine your level and type of participation.
- Remain open and flexible to all the new activities and participation opportunities.
Step 3: Sign-up
- Work with the volunteer coordinator to ensure that the work meets your personal development goals & training plans.
- If there is a introduction program make sure to attend and ask the fellow volunteers for advice.
Step 4: Keep Yourself Accountable
- Assess commitment level
- Evaluate the benefits
- If it’s not working, consider changing: how you participate OR seeking out another organization!