Why Volunteer?

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people

 

If you have just moved to a new area or just want to meet new people and develop friendships then consider volunteering as a way to get involved in your community.

Volunteering is not only a one way act of giving but it is also of great benefit to you. Instead of considering volunteering as something you do for people who are not as fortunate as yourself, begin to think of it as an exchange.

Consider that most people find themselves in need at some point in their lives. So today you may be the person with the ability to help, but tomorrow you may be the recipient of someone else's volunteer effort. Adding your effort to the involvement of others less fortunate makes everyone's lives better.

Think about how much you receive when you give and consider why you want to volunteer. You may have several different reasons. Here are just a few of the many possible motivations identified by other volunteers:

 

• to share a skill
• to get to know a community
• satisfaction from accomplishment
• to donate your professional skills
• to have an impact
• to learn something new
• to be challenged
• to feel proud
• to make new friends
• to explore a career
• to help someone
• to do something different from your job
• for fun!
• to keep skills alive
• to have an excuse to do what you love
• to feel good
• to be part of a team
• to test yourself
• to build your resume
• to be an agent of change
• to stand up and be counted

 

It is reaffirming to see that your role as a volunteer can strengthen your commitment to helping others when you can see the benefits to both the recipient of your efforts and to yourself. This voluntary act of giving is much more comfortable than "charity" because it upholds the self-esteem of those with whom you volunteer.

If you are new to Australia and want to learn more about its culture and develop your English. Volunteering can do this! By being a volunteer you can sit down and have a chat to a person who might not have any other regular visitors and this can help you practice your English in a friendly environment on a regular basis.

Volunteering also offers a range of opportunities for people who are unemployed to maintain existing skills and develop new ones. Some benefits could be:

 

• Increased self esteem and confidence
• An opportunity to learn new skills and participate in new activities
• Develop new networks
• Obtain references to help find a job

 

Curtin University careers department state that,

 

“Volunteering or community service work is fast becoming an essential part of a stand-out resume. Employers are looking for evidence of commitment, loyalty and a strong desire to contribute to the success of society, all of which volunteering demonstrates. It also aids personal growth and the development of transferable skills.”

 

So what are you waiting for?
VOLUNTEER TODAY!

 

< Back