Have you looked around your community and thought about how fortunate you are to have a home? Perhaps you think about those less fortunate in your community and you want to help out. Many people have a desire to help out but are unsure how they can help, or who to approach. Other people don't believe that they have the skills or abilities to make a difference in their communities.
Anyone can make a difference in their community, and every community needs volunteers. There are a number of different ways you can contribute to your community. One way is too visit websites of large organizations and see if they have a branch in your town or city. For example, if you are interested in building homes for those who can't afford it you might visit the Habitat for Humanity website to see if they have any projects in your area or learn more here.
Another way to find volunteer opportunities is to consider your skill set and find opportunities that match. For example, if you are a skilled interior decorator you might be able to put your skills to use in your community. Some organizations have a fundraiser where they design, build and decorate a home and sell tickets to the public. Your skills would be a valuable asset to such a project. Of course, even if you don't have a particular skill set that an organization needs there are always jobs available for people to sell tickets or answer phones.
Most volunteer opportunities are fundraising opportunities but this is not ideal for everyone. The purchase price and maintenance thereof, is often the reason that there is so much fundraising taking place. Organizations need facilities in which to carry out their programs. If you would rather a more hands on volunteer position you might consider contacting your local YMCA. You will often find that they are need of volunteers to do tangible things like supervise children's programs.
If you are still sitting in your own house wondering how you can help your community you might consider looking for a gap in services that exist in your town. Are there enough programs for children and teens in your town? Maybe you should consider getting involved with Girl Guides or Boy Scouts. Maybe you have noticed that there is nowhere for teenagers to spend time after school in your city. This might be a great opportunity to help your community. You could try to gather together a group of like minded citizens who can raise money to open a youth drop in center, or you might consider lobbying your local government to make one available in the local high school.
Do you need some guidance choosing a legitimate charitable organization? Visit Charity Navigator.
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