Volunteerism is an activity for all ages and it can involve as much, or as little time as you choose. Volunteering can mean different things to different people. It can involve giving of your time, your skills, or your resources. It is giving of yourself in any capacity that you can, for whatever length of time that you can give. Some people volunteer for a few hours a week, while others make a career of it. Whether you choose to volunteer through a formal program or informally in your community, volunteering can add greater meaning to your life.
Following the tragedies of September 11th, people strengthened the bonds of their communities through countless acts of volunteerism. Some donated blood. Others gave financial support or traveled to Ground Zero to do whatever they could to help. Even children did their part and sent cards and drawings to the rescue teams.
That extraordinary spirit of volunteerism can exist in our everyday lives simply by identifying and connecting with opportunities to take action. You can volunteer to read to children at your local library, or plan weekly visits to a senior citizens' home. You can give blood, serve food in a homeless shelter, drive a disabled person to the grocery store, or participate in a walk to raise funds for a worthy cause. You can volunteer at a museum or daycare center or coach a community sports team. If you are in high school or college, you can sign up to be a mentor to younger students or to be a peer counselor. You can also discover many opportunities to volunteer through your company or your church, temple or mosque.
Volunteering doesn't have to take time away from your life. It can be incorporated into your routine. Below are some tips to help you decide how you can volunteer your time:
- Research issues and causes that are important to you.
- Consider the skills that you have to offer - these can include anything, from computer skills to cooking to athletics to artistic skills.
- Look around in your community to determine its needs.
- Combine your goals - think about your interests and your career and personal goals and try to volunteer in a capacity that can enhance your future, while you are helping others.
- Consider volunteering with your friends, family or co-workers.
- Volunteer in a way that fits your personality and your lifestyle. Have fun with it!
Volunteerism offers tremendous rewards - both to the volunteer and to those we help. By volunteering, you are helping to improve yourself and making a difference in the world.