As the holiday season approaches, it’s the perfect time to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives—family, friends, health, education, and the opportunities we’ve been given. It’s also an ideal moment to reflect on our purpose as members of society and consider how we can create a positive impact in our communities and beyond.
Volunteering offers a meaningful way to give back. Not only does it benefit the people and causes you support, but it also nurtures your own well-being and sense of fulfillment. Beyond its emotional rewards, volunteering provides an opportunity to strengthen professional skills, gain valuable experience, and enhance your resume—all while making a difference in the world.
Following is a step by step guide to identifying and securing a meaningful volunteer or civic engagement position. Carefully select an organization based on your interests and capabilities. These may include:
· Non-profits and Advocacy Groups
· Non-government organizations
· Schools
· Religious Organizations
· Chambers of Commerce
· Convention & Visitors’ Bureaus
· Municipal offices
· Economic development centers
· Hospitals
Once you have targeted an organization, review volunteer policies. Consider areas the organization needs help. Create your own position based on your professional knowledge and abilities. As a professional communicator, you can showcase your value in several ways:
· Revamp and manage social media efforts
· Design and/or write newsletters
· Handle fundraising efforts
· Support event planning and marketing
· Create a media relations plan
· Train and mentor other volunteers, clients or members
· Identify and support new marketing or public relations initiatives
Set specific goals for your volunteer efforts:
· Contribute to the organization’s success (education, awareness, funding, etc.)
· Fill resume gaps with meaningful work
· Develop or improve new skills
· Secure current references
· Secure a paid position at the organization
· Improve your interpersonal skills and maintain your confidence
· Benefit society!
As you volunteer, remember to stay focused on your career goals. Keep up with your job search, save examples of portfolio-worthy work, and maintain a positive and confident mindset. By demonstrating your value and contributing to an organization’s success, you’ll not only gain valuable experience but also build meaningful connections—and who knows, your volunteer role could even lead to a paid full-time position!
Once you’ve achieved your goal of securing meaningful full-time employment, consider “paying it forward” by continuing to volunteer your time and expertise to the causes you care about. Giving back is a powerful way to stay connected and inspired.
Check out opportunities near you at VOLUNTEER MATCH.org.
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