Choosing and finding voluntary work

From the book The Virgin Guide to Volunteering by Rebecca Hardy, available from Virgin Books priced £12.99

Is voluntary work right for you?
Perhaps the most crucial point in trying to match yourself to voluntary work, is the old adage 'know thyself'. You may have a million good causes in the world, and a vast array of exciting, cutting-edge skills you'd like to develop, but make sure you know what you're letting yourself in for. Opting to volunteer isn't to be taken lightly. Yes, it can offer you the chance to test the waters before you dive in to a full-blown career, but it still requires a level of commitment. Speak to any volunteer manager, and they'll tell you that they want reliable people who they can trust to commit. In short, don't make any promises you can't keep.

Making the right choice
So, how do you choose which type of volunteering is right for you? Before you choose, ask yourself the following questions:

How much time can I give?
One of the great things about volunteering is the flexibility it allows. Basically, you call the shots, and unlike the rigours of most paid work, you can decide just how much time you have to give, and when you would like to do it. Whatever your commitments and responsibilities, you should be able to find something for you.

Work out how much time you can feasibly give to the project. If you're integrating it with work, picture yourself arriving home from the office. How do you think you'll feel if you've signed up to volunteer every evening? How much time do you feasibly think you'll be able to offer without it becoming a chore? Is it easy to get to? Does it involve unsociable hours? Can you give time regularly as part of your weekly schedule, or would it be more suitable to opt for a volunteer holiday? If you're not sure how easily you can integrate volunteering into your life, a short volunteer holiday may be the best option. Meanwhile if you're a 'whenever' person, fundraising activities are ideal if you can only give time in regular but arbitrary spurts, when an event is up and running.

What do I want to gain from the experience?
Focusing on what you have to gain from the experience can help you narrow down the choices available to you. If adventure is top of the list, then choose an overseas project, or opt for one of the more cutting edge and challenging projects. If you're looking specifically to develop a certain skill, check that you will have the opportunity, although expect that you may have to do other things too. If you want to break into a specific industry or gain skills as a foundation to a further career, such as in teaching or nursing, look out for volunteering opportunities in the same area.

What skills do I have to offer?
Think carefully about what you can offer an organisation and who might be interested. Don't assume that just because it's voluntary, they'll be eager to snap you up. Voluntary organisations can be hugely professional. Maybe you are a good cook and could help in the kitchens of a refugee council, or maybe you have counselling skills. There are plenty of professions that can find voluntary placements.

Finding voluntary work
The secret to finding voluntary work is to cast your net wide. At the beginning, be prepared for inspiration to come from anywhere.

The Media
Local hospitals
Local hospitals often take volunteers, particularly if you are looking to start a career in one of the caring professions. Contact them by letter first. It may also be worth contacting the Social Services Departments. They should have details of local schemes in your area such as mentoring.
Ask your employers
Many employers are keen to see their staff volunteer, as it can develop vital skills such as in team building and communication. Speak to your boss about your plans. Some companies have employee volunteering programmes which you can join, or at the very least you may be able to persuade them to lend you support with time-off or money. Don't assume that your boss won't be interested - many employers now take an enlightened interest in supporting their staff and allowing them to develop their talents.
Alternatively, search for a placement in your local area

From the book The Virgin Guide to Volunteering by Rebecca Hardy, available from Virgin Books priced £12.99

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