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Getting Started
Like many projects, getting started can be
trickier than it sounds — which is why it's the first step
to success! Follow the guidelines below if you know you would
like to get involved but aren't sure where to start.
Determine how much time you can
invest
Every volunteer opportunity will have different requirements,
including time. Some opportunities may be a one-time, one-day
activity, while others may require a long-term regular time
investment!
Knowing from the beginning how much time
you're able to invest in a volunteering project will help you:
- Narrow down your choices
- Increase your chances of finding an opportunity
that's a good fit for you
Finding Volunteer Project Ideas
The next step after determining how much time you're able to
invest in a volunteer project is to look for project ideas and
possible volunteer opportunities. A good place to start looking
for ideas is right outside your door — your own community!
- Tune into your local news for an overview
of events and issues going on around you
- Read the newspaper
- Visit organizations in your community
dedicated to helping others (salvation army, homeless shelters,
churches, libraries, schools, etc.)
- Ask people who are already volunteering
how they got started
- Look up volunteer organizations online
- Talk to friends and families about issues
that interest you
Volunteer Opportunities
In almost every community you can find several organizations
that operate with the help of volunteers. Here are a few examples
of places you're likely to find volunteer opportunities and
ideas:
- Nursing Homes
- Youth and Recreation Centers
- Homeless Shelters
- Churches
- Environmental Organizations
- Politics and Government
- Community Groups
- School
For further understanding of volunteering, download our
activity sheet! |
Getting started on a volunteer project
Learn how to determine what type of volunteer activity is best for you and how to get started!
Finding a volunteer project that's right for you
Learn how to find a volunteer project that matches your interests and skills!
Getting kids excited about volunteering
Learn how to build kids' interest and energy for volunteering!
Reflection
Taking time to reflect on your decisions and experiences is an important part of all steps of volunteering; before, during and after!
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