Volunteer Opportunities for Young People
By Steve Volman
Consider the type of volunteering in conjunction with work experience. If management is already part of work experience, the type of volunteering may be aligned closely to that. In almost any economy, good or bad, volunteering is always available. This doubles the networking exposure that can be most advantageous to people who are unemployed and seeking employment. Volunteering and work experience are a perfect fit.
Anyone who has ever been a member of an organization that requires job volunteering knows one of the best advantages is enhancement of their work experience. As an example, volunteering for the handicapped such as the blind and deaf, through organizations like the Rotary, Moose, Lions or Elks Clubs has the benefit of providing the volunteer with a better understanding of the needs and potential of handicapped individuals. This type of volunteer work, when it includes group volunteering, also provides a sense of "teamwork" so necessary in the work experience. The simple act of volunteering for fund raising campaigns for these types of groups has enormous value to work experience, particularly when charity work involves fund raising. It provides experience on types of funding sources as well as how to raise funds by networking with other volunteer groups.
Many social workers understand the difficulties in dealing with their casework. In volunteer jobs, although there isn't a financial reward of a salary attached to the responsibilities and duties, the rewards are exposure to agencies and supervisory staff where, by observation, work experience is increased. Gaining knowledge of the type of volunteer opportunities available is readily accessible for those who are interested in pursuing this course. Volunteering for local community service is nearly always welcomed and appreciated. This can take the form of "Meals on Wheels", "Literacy Aides" or community activism in areas of special community needs or interests. In addition, it isn't always necessary to look for a specific group or volunteer organization. Any individual is always capable of enlisting a core group when the need arises for action for a special program or activity within the community. Engaging a core group is highly valuable to work experience in terms of management skills that are gained, use of media to promote group action and attracting new members to a group. Such experience falls into the category of human resources administration skills.
Another benefit of being a volunteer is how you are perceived by the public eye. Most likely if you do well at volunteer jobs, you will be considered strongly should you ever want a permanent job at that particular business. When business managers see they can depend on you as a volunteer your reputation as a good worker will be set in stone. It is also a nice addition to have volunteer work listed on a resume as experience working with others in your community.
Volunteer opportunities are also a great way for college students to gain on the job training. Once you have an idea of which career you want to go into, find out if there is a business in that field that has a need for volunteers. This can help you be better prepared for the job and give you a sense of pride while doing it.