We all want to do something positive for the community and society. When you decide to become a volunteer, you will learn new things and can meet a lot of interesting people with similar ideas and visions. It is an incredible feeling to know that you are helping someone else on their way to success.
Volunteering has many health benefits and can make anyone’s life happier, but only if you choose the right organization. If you are young and have never done it before, volunteering might be a way of discovering more about what you need and what you like, so when you are at university or working, it will be easier for you to find your place in this world.
Considering volunteering for an organization or this is your first time, consider these seven guidelines for your first volunteering experience.
Do Your Research
Before signing up for your first volunteer position, research the organization you’d like to work with. Find out what they do — and if there is anything specific that interests you — and their mission statement and history. This will give you an idea of what they are all about so that you will better understand where they stand on certain issues or ideas when you go for your interview.
Researching the organization before going in for an interview is also beneficial. It shows your interest in their cause and that you care about what they do.
Pick The Right Time
Look at the organization’s availability and ensure that your schedule allows for this commitment before signing up for anything. Don’t expect yourself to go every week if it’s not possible right now! If necessary, look into other organizations nearby that may have similar missions but offer flexible scheduling options. It will prevent you from feeling like you’re missing out on an opportunity just because it doesn’t work with your schedule.
Discover the Right Program for You
When choosing a program, consider your goals for volunteering and where they fit into your long-term career plans. For example, if you have an interest in working with children or teenagers, consider programs that allow you to interact with young people regularly, such as tutoring or mentoring programs at schools or community centers.
If your goal is to gain exposure to a specific field or gain skills within that field (such as medical professionals), look for opportunities where you can shadow professionals or participate in workshops related to their work environment (for example, doctor visits, lab tours).
Prepare Yourself Mentally And Physically
If you’re going on a trip or spending the day with friends, then ensure that you prepare yourself mentally and physically beforehand by eating well and getting plenty of sleep. If you’re going straight from work or school, take care of any tasks ahead so there are no distractions during the event.
You should also dress appropriately for the occasion. For example, jeans may be fine for working in an office environment but not appropriate for going on an outdoor adventure.
Learn How To Use The Equipment
Before you start your volunteer work, ensure you know how everything works and your responsibilities. This applies whether you’re using tools or equipment like power drills or ladders or cleaning supplies like bleach and disinfectant.
Take advantage of this opportunity if there’s someone at the place you’re volunteering who can help teach you how to use something new. It will help ensure that your first volunteering experience goes smoothly without any surprises along the way.
Spend Time With Other Volunteers
Volunteer opportunities can vary greatly depending on what type of organization you’re working with and what tasks you need help with. Some volunteers may work directly with patients, while others may spend their time doing clerical work or organizing events for the organization.
Regardless of the volunteering opportunity, spend some time talking with other volunteers. They will help you understand their job expectations and how they spend their time volunteering at this particular place or organization.
Bring Supplies With You
If possible, bring supplies with you when you volunteer. It will ensure that you do your tasks correctly and efficiently. For example, if there’s an event where volunteers have to clean up trash from around the venue before the event starts (and after), make sure everyone has gloves and bags.
If there’s an event where volunteers have to pass out drinks at an event and collect money for wristbands or tickets, bring cash boxes with change buckets inside them. People won’t have to go back and forth between their car or house and the event venue.
Volunteering Can Be a Rewarding Experience
Whether you’re new to the idea of volunteering, or an old hand at it, these tips will help. Get involved, be kind, and be yourself—that’s all there is to it. If you enjoy your time doing volunteer work, then you’re doing it right.