Getting Involved
The Government declared 2005 as the Year of the Volunteer and the vision for the year was to create awareness of, increase the opportunities for and encourage more people to get involved in volunteering.
During 2005 we identified a theme for each month to help you get
involved in volunteering. We also wanted to hear your volunteering
stories around these themes and you can read a selection of these
Real Stories here. For more
information contact your nearest Volunteering
Bureau. |
 |
Why Volunteer?
Everyone has their own reason to start volunteering but most volunteers get great enjoyment from what they do – that's why they keep on doing it. Getting involved with volunteering will allow you to meet lots of different kinds of people and make new friends. Volunteering can make a real difference to the lives of individuals, the community and the environment, and can help you achieve personal goals, develop new skills and practice your talents. Volunteering contributes to personal development, and exercises both the mind and the body.
What do you want to do?
Think about the type of activity that interests you. Ask yourself:
- Do you want to get involved with people, issues or the environment?
- Do you want to work on your own or as part of a group?
- Do you want to be involved in management and planning or are you a more 'hands on' type of person?
- Would you be able to work in close, emotionally demanding relationships or would you rather do more practical work?
How much time can you give?
Can you make a regular long-term commitment or do you want to get involved for a shorter period of time? Be realistic about how much time you can spare and over what period of time. Do not over commit yourself.
What skills do you have to offer?
You may have certain skills or talents that you would like to put to use in the course of your volunteering.You should be clear about whether you want to use skills you already have, are willing to participate in training to develop new skills or a combination of both!
Getting started
So now that you have some ideas about what you want to do the next step is to find an organisation that needs your help. You can do this by contacting:
Your local Volunteer Bureau FREEPHONE 0800 052 2212 or contact the bureau nearest you.
|
