Food for thought
Are you thinking of volunteering but don’t know where to start? The following list of questions — food for thought — should help you make the best choice.
Type of commitment
- How much time per week or per month do you want to devote to volunteer work?
- Are you interested in a short-term or long-term commitment?
- Would you rather work alone or with a group?
- Do you want to help a single individual?
- Do you want to take part in an activity at home or as part of an organization?
- Are you prepared to travel long distances to the site of the volunteer activity?
Goals
- What are your personal or career goals?
- Do you want to improve your career prospects?
- Do you want to contribute to your community’s well-being?
- Do you want to do you something you feel passionate about?
- Do you want to be part of a mutual-help network?
- You want to create a feeling of belonging?
- Do you have special skills or talents that you would like to share with individuals or organizations?
- Do you want to master a specific skill?
- Are you hoping to acquire experience in a specific field?
- What area would you like to explore? Sports and recreation? The environment? Event organization? Health and social services? Training? International assistance?
- Do you care deeply about a specific cause?
Your answers will help you identify the most suitable type of volunteer commitment and the specific area where you want to devote your time and energy.
See the How you can get involved in your community section to find out which organizations are seeking volunteers in specific areas of interest.
