Volunteerism and Service-Learning
Finding the Right Match
We all have different reasons for volunteering. It's important for you to consider your needs and expectations, and take the time to find an organization that does the work you most want to do as a volunteer.
Ask yourself:
- What causes or issues matter most to me?
- Are there particular people, age groups or communities I would like to work with?
- What do I hope to gain from this experience?
- What do I have to offer?
- Do I want to use skills I already have or do something completely new?
- Do I want to work directly with people or do administrative or research work?
- Do I want to work alone, with friends or my family?
- What don't I want to do as a volunteer?
- How much time do I realistically have to dedicate to this?
Once You Decide to Commit
When you begin volunteering, remember that people will be counting on you to follow through. Some of your responsibilities may include:
- Taking orders and doing what the organization needs you to do (within reason).
- Arriving on time and staying for the entire length of your shift unless you've made prior arrangements with the agency.
- Respecting the organization and its clients' confidentiality.
- Participating in evaluations and seeking and offering honest feedback.
- Making your objectives clear to the people you are working with.
- Addressing problems that may arise before that get out of control, or determining when a situation no longer meets your objectives, interests, or schedule.
Service Partner Links
Inclusion in this list does not imply an endorsement or recommendation by SEU or the Geraldine Doyle Riordan Center for Volunteerism and Service-Learning.