There are many reasons why you might want to do volunteer work. You may undertake it because you are passionate about a cause or because you want to make a positive contribution to your community. If you are a young graduate, you may want to explore a volunteer opportunity in order to gain valuable work experience or because you want to explore the world and do something positive for the culture you visit. Whatever your reasons, the first thing you ask yourself is: "How do I start volunteer work?"
It's a good question and some of the answers may surprise you. While there is a great demand for volunteers, there is also a great number of willing and able volunteers to fill that demand. In fact, it is estimated that more than 5 million Australians use their professional skills to do volunteer work of some sort every year. You will find that finding volunteer work is much like finding a job. You must apply for the position and prove that you possess the necessary qualifications for the position. Don't let this deter you, though. The greatest qualification you will need to pass the application process for a volunteer role is the sincere desire to be of service to others.
What Does it Take to be a Volunteer?
In many cases, you need not be fully qualified for the volunteer position that you're eyeing, as long as you are willing and able to undertake the required training for the job. Having social skills and a good understanding of communication will ensure you get the best volunteer experience and have memorable interactions with people from different walks of life.
Offering your services for free to community centers, assisting the sick with essential life skills, improving the animal shelter in your neighbourhood, and many more volunteer programs will provide you with real world experience and gain you valuable references for your CV.
How Do I Apply for Volunteer Work?
There are different types of volunteer work available in Australia and the world over. However, to land a volunteering opportunity that matches your skills and interests, you need to join a community organisation that offers volunteer roles which resonate with your goals and values in life. A wide range of volunteering activities are available for marine life and wildlife conservation, environmental conservation, homeless shelters, animal rescue and animal care, child protection and aged care facilities.
If you are seeking a type of volunteer work in the areas of health or social services, like soup kitchens, you will be happy to know that there now exists a program specializing in providing holistic health services. One Health Organisation (OHO) is Australia's first registered non-government organisation (NGO) to offer this speciality for natural natural health professionals; from mental health specialists to energy healers and those devoted to physical health and leadership skills.
Some of the types of skills in demand include Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture, massage therapy, naturopathy and kinesiology. In addition, there are organisations that are seeking volunteers to assist in and learn indigenous healing modalities in Australia, as well as international volunteers to participate in volunteer gigs in South Africa, North America, South America or other continents.
Things to Remember about Volunteer Work
The more specialised the work you wish to do, the more proof of your ability to do the work you will need to provide. For many types of services, such as childcare, a background and criminal record check may be required by the organisation. If you wish to volunteer for a post at an NGO overseas, you may have to include a full resume and answer a lengthy questionnaire before you are even considered for a position.
Volunteering can be enormously rewarding, but can also be very challenging. Remember, you are a volunteer, not a paid employee. You cannot be asked to do anything you don't feel you are fit or qualified to do and can withdraw from a program at any time if you feel it is not right for you.
Originally published on Apr 01, 2011
