Friday, July 16, 2010

Get Involved with Your Community

There are almost endless opportunities to become an active volunteer in your community. In addition to doing a good deed for someone else, you gain the opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills, enhance your resume, and alleviate the boredom of sitting home! Here are five places where your help is needed:

Scouting – Girl and Boy Scout troops are always looking for volunteers. Whether you just want to offer an extra hand at major events, or enlist as a leader / co-leader, there is sure to be a spot for you in one of these organizations. You can teach life skills, explore new hobbies, participate in outdoor activities, and much more. Keep in mind, though, that you will be required to take training classes and, most likely, have a background check conducted before you can supervise the scouts.

Big Brothers Big Sisters – Share your interests and hobbies with a child who could use a great role model. All you need to commit to is one hour per week, and you need to be comfortable working one-on-one with your little brother or sister. You can read about the program and apply online. Then, you’ll receive an interview and, ultimately, be matched with a child who needs you. 

Hospital Volunteering – Odds are your local hospital is always looking for an extra set of hands. Depending on your interests, you can help out in a variety of ways. For example, if you love kids, you can assist in the pediatric ward, spending time with patients, monitoring the playroom, etc. Alternatively, you could help organize publicity efforts in the blood bank, deliver flowers and gifts to patients, or assist in the cafeteria. In addition to the sense of pride you’ll get from volunteering, hospitals may also offer volunteers discount CPR / First Aid certification, free meals during volunteer hours, letters of recommendation, and other incentives.

Senior Center / Nursing Home – Volunteering with the elderly is a great way to give back, and you’re likely to gain some gems of wisdowm from the individuals you spend time with. Volunteer activities with this group vary widely, so you are sure to find something that suits your time / interests. You can perform music, read, do crafts, play a game, take a walk, or even just sit and chat with a few new friends.

Parks and Trails – If nature is your passion, consider local trail restoration groups. You’ll make friends who share your interests, and have a great excuse to get outside. These teams clean up litter, trim stray branches, fill in ditches, etc. to make trails safe for visitors. Some groups also participate in surveys of local wildlife, community education, and other activities that may be of interest to you.

1 comment:

  1. I like it because i was seeking for such type of info.

    I hope it benefits all one who land up here.

    Thanks for sharing!!

    ReplyDelete