Enjoy The Many Benefits of Volunteering

The AARP suggests that people ask the following questions to find out what is the best place and type of volunteering one can contribute. Why do I want to provide volunteer service? What are the benefits I hope to gain from volunteer service? What usable knowledge, skills or abilities do I have to offer? What are my greatest strengths? What do I enjoy doing? What do I dislike doing? Do I enjoy working alone or with other people? Is there a particular problem or issue that is important to me? What issues interest me? Would I rather work with people, things or ideas? Am I willing to travel? How much time am I willing and able to give? What times are best including weekdays and weekends?

Independent Sector(http://www.independentsector.org) is an organization devoted to strengthening the nonprofit sector, also has a great deal of information about volunteering. That site explained that there are many agencies and organizations in the community needing volunteers. They provide contacts to organizations in need as well and also provide tips on getting the best out of the volunteer experience. Most people know that hospitals, libraries, churches and schools may need volunteers but they suggest a few other ways to help as well. Among those not commonly known can include: Meals on Wheels; museums, prisons; community theaters; day care centers; retirement centers and senior living communities; historic restoration, battlefield and park projects; shelters for battered women and/or children and Neighborhood Watch to name a few.

Exploring volunteer opportunities is made easier through the AARP Volunteer Center. This center includes an online registration request form which can help match people up with suitable positions based on interests and abilities, skills, time and so on. Information can also be obtained by sending an e-mail to the volunteer center at getinvolved@aarp.org

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