Factors To Consider Before Joining A Non Profit Volunteer Organization

By Janet Wood


The society faces some challenges that cannot be solved through profitable ventures. For instance, disaster response teams are often volunteers from different areas of specialization. Before anyone can join any non profit volunteer organization, they must be committed to the complete the agreed term of service with the institution. This is because when people quit before their term is over, the operations of the organization are affected and can also demoralize other volunteers.

Work with an institution whose core values are in line with your personal beliefs. This is because anything you do not believe in eventually becomes a burden especially if there is no reward attached to it. However, if you believe in the mission and vision of the organization, it will be easy to serve others with gladness. You will even draw satisfaction from your service.

When thinking of volunteering, it important to ask yourself how the organization will benefit from your service. If you can see yourself as an asset to the institution, then you are on the right track. Often, people join organizations only because of what they can get from them. If you can shift your focus to what you can give, your service will be more meaningful and fulfilling. On the other hand if you cannot see yourself offering anything substantial to the institution, then it may be a good idea to look for another opportunity where you are best suited.

For those who are in their early years of their careers, it is good to work with organizations that support causes related to your career. This has many advantages especially to those who have graduated recently. You will be exposed to real life challenges and gain firsthand experience in tackling problems. This will propel you in your career and give you a hedge over your peers who have not volunteered to similar causes.

Some causes are physically demanding. This requires that applicants be physically fit for them to qualify as volunteers. Others require certain minimum technical skills. It is wise to understand what the requirements are for the cause of your interest. This helps you know what you need to do so that you can meet the requirements of the selection process.

You will need to plan your time very well so that you can attend to your work and family responsibilities alongside your volunteer program. In many cases, volunteers have a tough time meeting their family and work demands. It is like working two jobs at the same time especially when the volunteer program is demanding. You may be forced to forgo important commitments so that the can save lives. However, as a responsible person, you will need to plan your schedule such that your career and family are not adversely affected.

Proximity to the operations center of the organization is very important. Choose a cause that does not require you to relocate from our current home. This will cause little disruption to your schedule. On the other side, if you are required to relocate, you will need to do a lot of planning as this will affect your family. Your children may have to change schools. This is a huge change which needs to be managed carefully.

Not everybody can volunteer to serve due to inadequate skills or time. However, if you fall in this category, you can support causes of your choice through donations. So do not be left out.




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