If you have a little free time, devote it to someone in need. In one hour, you can read to a child, drive an elderly person to the doctor, walk a homeless dog, deliver a meal to a shut-in, visit a dying patient or send a care package to a soldier overseas. Even for volunteer work, the competition may be tough, as laid-off workers look for ways to fill their time, hone their job skills and acquire experience in new fields. When you find the right volunteer job, be prepared for a formal application process and approach it professionally.
Step 1
Update your resume to include special skills and previous volunteer experience, if any. Whether or not the organization asks for a copy, reviewing the information will help you identify the strengths and assets that you can offer to people in need.
Step 2
Write a list of factors to consider when you begin researching volunteer opportunities. They may include time, travel, interests, clients, and skills needed. Determine whether you would prefer to volunteer for a one time special event or for a weekly or monthly commitment. Distance may be a factor for you if you have only one or two hours a week to volunteer. Someone who is looking for experience in a new field may be willing to travel further for the right opportunity.
Step 3
Search local newspapers for potential volunteer opportunities. Sometimes newspapers publish public service announcements once a week in a special section while larger newspapers may publish them daily.
Step 4
Research online websites for organizations that need assistance. Websites such as VolunteerMatch.org, Idealist.org and World Volunteer Web offer database searches that you can tailor to your location and interests. Some will also email you potential matches at set intervals if you like, according to VolunteerMatch.org.
Step 5
Write down or print out a list of volunteer jobs that interest you and gather additional information. If the organization has a website, review any information pertaining to volunteer jobs. Look for applications, dates of volunteer training, descriptions of volunteer duties and testimonials of current volunteers. If you cannot locate a website, call the organization for more information, using the posted contact number.
Step 6
Follow the organization's application process exactly. Some organizations require you to mail or fax a copy of your resume along with a completed application while others ask you to attend an orientation session before proceeding with the application process. For smaller organizations, an email or telephone call to the volunteer coordinator may be the first step.
Step 7
Approach an interview in the same way as you would meeting a prospective employer. Bring your resume, photo identification, social security card and professional license, if any, to the interview. Wear professional clothing, shake hands firmly and look the interviewer in the eye when you speak.
Step 8
Discuss your goals, skills, interests, concerns and limitations candidly. The volunteer coordinator wants your experience to be beneficial to you and to the organization, so provide enough information to allow her to determine your fit for the job. Many organizations need volunteers in various roles, so be honest about your preference for office work over client interactions, for example.
Step 9
Tour the organization, if possible. If you are volunteering for a particular role, such as serving meals at a homeless shelter, ask for an opportunity to watch volunteers performing that function so you can decide if you would be a good fit.
Step 10
Cooperate with requests for additional screening, if any. Organizations providing services to children, for example, may require a criminal background check before accepting you as a volunteer. If you will be driving a van, for example, you may need to provide a copy of your driving record and proof of car insurance. Some organizations require drug testing as well.
Things You'll Need
- Local newspapers
- Internet access
- Pen and paper
- Resume
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