The Right Volunteer Project for You

Volunteering has countless benefits however, finding a volunteer opportunity that fits your interests and talents will benefit you, the organization you volunteer with and your community even more!

Review our tips for finding a volunteer project that's right for you:

Remember, a volunteer project doesn't always have to be with an organization. You can create your very own project based on the time and skills you have to give — anywhere from helping an elderly neighbor with yard work to organizing a charity event.

Jot down your interests, talents and skills as well as any issues you would like to learn more about. These questions may help get you started:

What do I enjoy doing?
It's possible that you can find a volunteer opportunity doing the activities you enjoy doing! For example, if you enjoy singing you can volunteer to sing by yourself or with others at nursing homes or local charity events as entertainment.

What am I good at? Can my talents, skills or knowledge benefit others less fortunate than me?
Whatever you're talents, skills or knowledge are you can use them to help others. For example, if you're good at math you can volunteer to tutor students. Or, if you're good at sports you can volunteer to help with the special Olympics or junior recreational clubs.

My friends or classmates often ask me to help them with _____?
You friends, classmates or family members may often ask you for help with things they know you're good at. For example, studying, band practice or shopping.

Why do I want to volunteer?
Asking yourself this question will help motivate and focus your efforts. Some people volunteer to learn a specific skill, because they have a strong interest in a cause or just to help others.

How much time do I have to give outside of my existing responsibilities?
It's important to know how much time you have to give for several reasons, like narrowing down possible projects and ensuring you don't become overwhelmed.

Do I want to be part of a larger ongoing project and work with other volunteers or single activities?
This will also help narrow down project ideas. For example, you could volunteer to plan a walk/run event that takes many people over a period of time or you could volunteer for projects that are one-time requests.

What organizations are in my community that focus on helping others in need?
Simply make a list of the organizations that you're aware of in your community. You can find help in your local yellow pages, newspaper, news or online.

Do any of the organizations in my community focus on an issue I would like to learn more about?
Look for an organization in your community that specializes or focuses on your areas of interests. For example, if your interested in helping at-risk youth look for a youth recreation center.

If I could change one thing in my community, it would be _____?
This question will help you think of issues or problems going on around you. For example, you may wish there was a better park, after-school activities or less crime.

For further help finding a volunteer opportunity that's right for you, download activity sheet 1 and activity sheet 2!

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!