Ongoing Volunteer Opportunities

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Getting Started Volunteering

Volunteer! How to Get Started…

Research the causes or issues that matter to you.

It is important that your volunteer efforts are a good fit with your personal interests. Look for a group or organization that addresses issues that are important to you. If you can’t find an organization, consider starting your own volunteer efforts towards that issue. Partner with like-minded individuals to help coordinate your efforts. You could potentially connect with a local, national or international organization supporting your cause. Volunteer opportunities are endless, as is the need for good volunteers.

Do a personal inventory of the skills you have to offer.

Consider your personal skill set, talents and energies. This will allow you to enter a volunteer position doing something you enjoy and will reduce the amount of training you will need. Be prepared to offer this information to the organization with which you will be volunteering.

Consider the Learning Potential.

It might be that you would like to learn a new skill or gain exposure to a new experience. Maybe you want to improve your writing or computer abilities and volunteer to produce a newsletter for an organization. Be sure to take into consideration the time commitment of building a skill or interest, and be prepared to make the commitment.

Combine Your Goals.

Look for an opportunity that aligns with other goals you may have set for yourself. If you are looking to improve your fitness level for instance, why not consider contacting an organization that would require physical activity, such as your local Habitat for Humanity or a community beautification organization.

Consider Your Schedule.

Make sure the volunteer hours you want to give align with your lifestyle and previous commitments. Do not over-commit yourself and risk making your efforts a source of frustration for yourself or your family. Be upfront with an organization about the time you have to commit. If you are uncertain about your availability, start with less and build on that, as time allows.

You Are Ready to Search!

To find an existing volunteer opportunity in Warren County, Kentucky, visit the ALIVE Center website at www.wku.edu/alive. Click on the Event Opportunities, Onging Opportunities, or Opportunities for Youth tab to view Volunteer Opportunities, and select a volunteer category that matches your interest.Contact the organization using the contact information provided.

Find Your Fit!

Realize that the first place you contact may not be the best fit for you as an individual. Finding a volunteer opportunity that suits your needs is a process that may take some time. You want to be sure that the volunteer opportunity you choose fits well with your schedule, your interests, and your work style.

WESTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY


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