Get Involved!

Get Involved!

While everyone may have slightly different reasons for volunteering, one of the most common reasons people become volunteers is to meet people in their community. Perhaps you have just relocated to a new community, recently retired, are between jobs, or just want to meet new people. Volunteering is the perfect opportunity to expand your horizons, help others and help yourself.

Simply follow the steps detailed on this page and you’ll be on your way to successful and rewarding service.

1. Start by making a list or writing down your own goals and objectives. Why do you want to volunteer? What skills do you want to use, or learn? Do you want to help seniors, children or animals? Start to think about what would be fun and rewarding or meaningful to you and write it down- use some of the guidelines below to help guide you in creating your criteria list.

Research the causes or issues important to you

Consider the skills you have to offer: many organizations have needs for volunteers with special skills such as computer experience, ability to use certain tools, etc.

Consider things you'd like to learn more about

Combine your goals: pick a volunteer opportunity that helps you achieve your other life goals- if you're trying to lose a few pounds, you might choose an opportunity that allows you to be active.

Don't over-commit yourself: be honest with yourself and others about how much time you can and are willing to commit to a volunteer project.

Consider volunteering as a family.
Virtually volunteer: there are many volunteer opportunities that you can contribute to online. For more information, visit www.volunteermatch.org

2. Match your list of objectives to opportunities in your area. We have partnered with VolunteerMatch to help members find local volunteer opportunities in their communities. Simply enter your ZIP code, click Go and select from the available opportunities that match your interests. If you can’t find a project you are interested in, start your own! Visit our Project Ideas and Opportunities page for some ideas.