Anyone who has ever been a member of an organization that requires 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 handcapped 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 volunteer 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 work, 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 work 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.
Among those businesses you may want to consider charity work in are hospitals, some long term care facilities, grocery stores, charity groups, and many other establishments as well. This can also allow people to gain new relationships and earn a good reputation for when they are ready to go out into the working world in the future.
Volunteers are a great help to businesses. For instance, those who work as volunteers in hospitals help patients to have a more tolerable stay while they are ill. Nursing home patients may enjoy having a volunteer come visit them from time to time just to keep them company. Volunteers in grocery stores can be helpful by carrying bags out for customers or helping them locate certain items in the store.
Volunteering your time to help charity groups can also be an enjoyable thing to do. Knowing you are helping those in need can be a rewarding experience that you can be proud of. Many elderly people who are shut-ins need volunteers to run occasional errands for them. Having trustworthy people who can go pay their bills or make trips to the store for them when needed can be a tremendous help.
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.
Article source: Expert Articles
