Volunteering - Is it for you?
Before you volunteer it might be a good idea to have a think about:
Why do you want to volunteer?
Here are a few reasons why people volunteer:
- to develop skills, experience and improve your CV
- to build up your confidence
- to fill time
- to make friends
- to help others, in your community
It’s worth taking the time to decide why you want to volunteer. It helps you choose something you’re going to enjoy and find interesting.
What do you want to do as a volunteer?
- Do you have a skill or hobby you would like to use as a volunteer
- Maybe you would like to develop new skills or knowledge?
- Perhaps it is more about getting out and meeting new people while doing something useful?
- Do you want to help out, a particular group or cause in your community?
What could you gain by volunteering?
Volunteering can be of great benefit to both individuals and the organisations they support. You could gain-
- New skills
- Improved employability
- New friends and networks
- The chance to explore career possibilities
- Increased confidence and self esteem
- A new routine
- Satisfaction from giving something back and inspiring others
Where would you like to volunteer?
- Do you want to help out in your local community?
- How far would you travel to volunteer?
- Are travel expenses important to you?
- Is there a particular group or organisation you would like to support?
When are you available to volunteer?
Think carefully about when you might be available. Volunteering opportunities are available at different days and times.
- Are you available in the day, evenings or weekends?
- What other commitments do you have? E.g. Work, hobbies, child care etc.
- Could you give time every week or just occasionally?