Five ways to tap into the benefits of volunteering

Year-round, volunteers enrich their communities, help their neighbours and make positive changes.

Every April, we take time during National Volunteer Week to recognize the enormous impact of volunteers in their communities.

Some studies estimate the hard work of volunteers delivers billions of dollars in benefits to towns and cities across Canada. At the same time, volunteers themselves benefit. It can be a great way to gain work experience, develop a skill set, stay healthy and meet new people.

Volunteering comes in many forms and it can be difficult to know how to start. Here are five quick tips on how to choose the right opportunities for you:

Think about the causes you care about: One idea is to think back on the work or experiences you’ve had that have been the most meaningful. This kind of reflection may be a helpful way to decide which causes have the closest connection to you.

Where do you want to make a difference? Are you looking to give back to your immediate community, or are you more globally minded? These two can often go hand-in-hand when you connect with local volunteers with an eye on global developments.

Consider how much time you have to give: Research shows people who volunteer feel as though they have more free time. Nonetheless, it is important to think about how much time you can spare and it is worth reviewing your weekly schedule before making a commitment.

How can you contribute most effectively? It is always a good idea to volunteer your time doing something you are skilled at or have some experience with. That doesn’t necessarily mean doing the same work you have done in your career. It could also be a skill you developed through a hobby or pastime. You want volunteering to be fun, as well as fruitful.

Connect with an organization: With so many different ways to give of yourself, donating your time to a grassroots organization can add some structure and inspiration. Organizations like Amnesty International, for example, offer opportunities and resources ranging from letter-writing, event organizing and many other forms of volunteer work.

Find more information at www. amnesty.ca/get-involved.