Not sure where to start with volunteering? We get it! There are a million ways to get involved. Although this can be overwhelming, we’re here to help. Due to the abundance of opportunities, volunteering can be a great way to channel your passions, and even kick-start your career!
Here are 5 common types of causes you can volunteer for:
Environmental & Animal Welfare
If you’re a nature and/or animal lover, this is for you! Usually, this type of volunteering is hands-on and physically demanding. However, you will be directly protecting the ecosystem and animal welfare.
Some of these volunteer work examples include reforestation, cleaning up litter, nature trail reconstruction, animal rescue and animal fostering/adoption.
Healthcare
Hospitals and healthcare services in general are always in need of volunteers. This type of work is suited for those interested in working in healthcare, or a service-oriented career.
There are many types of work you can do, such as assisting with administrative work, accompanying patients during recovery, coordinating between families, visitors and staff, and greeting patients at the door.
Sports & Leisure
There are many sporting events that happen throughout the year, especially now as COVID-19 restrictions begin to be lifted. If you’re into sports and want to work in a fast-paced environment, you can volunteer at your local recreational center, or a major sporting event in your area.
Some of the tasks that you’ll do include: working behind-the-scenes at a major sporting event, assisting with setting up the venue, welcoming guest players and coaches, and documenting.
Youth & Seniors
Volunteering in a community that is oriented toward minoritized groups, such as youth and seniors, is a great way to make a direct positive impact in the lives of those who need it. Since you’ll be working primarily with vulnerable people, usually a background and criminal record check may be needed before you can start volunteering.
There are many ways you can help. Some of the most common work you’ll do are providing or delivering meals and drinks, assisting the elderly in their day- to- day tasks, and keeping an eye on children during daycare.
Technology and Media
With the fast-growing pace of technology, many volunteering organizations find themselves unable to keep up due to lack of resources and manpower. This is where you come in! If you’re interested in the tech industry and want to upskill in this area, consider volunteering your services for non-profit organizations.
Some volunteering work examples are building a website for a non-profit organization, teaching seniors how to use technology, and creating and maintaining a social media presence for a local charity.
Whatever you decide to do, there’s always a place where you can volunteer. Remember to choose a cause that’s meaningful to you, and find out ways you can offer your services to benefit the community. You’ll not only come out the other side with an increased confidence in your abilities, but also directly help make a positive impact!
Judith Sandra Suryanto
Volunteer Content Writer
Community Volunteer Connections believes that volunteers, and organizations that support volunteerism, make a difference in the world.
Volunteers improve the health and well-being of communities by serving the needs of all people from diverse backgrounds and abilities.
Do you believe in volunteers and the work we do at Community Volunteer Connections? Please consider supporting us through a donation.