Even who you know can be valuable to boards or for fund raising projects. Consider the skills or experiences you would like to gain. Volunteerism is a great way to learn something new either to enhance a resume or gain exposure within a new field or career. For youth, it provides exposure to the expectations of the work environment. Consider when you would like to volunteer, during the day, evening or weekends.
Some expectations involve a commitment of at least one year.
These opportunities provide the potential to make a significant and long term impact within the life a child or an adult in need such as becoming a mentor, a CASA volunteer, or assisting persons with disabilities. Review your current commitments and evaluate what is realistic before contacting an agency that interests you. Often, within each agency there is an variety of opportunities. Each agency s volunteer manager or designated staff can make placement recommendations based upon the level of time that you can offer. Consider that although you know you are coming to this decision for all of the right reasons, and are ready to get involved immediately, agencies will often need to make sure that you become a part of the organization just as an employee would.