How to Make a Difference in Your Workplace Through Volunteering

How to Volunteer at Work: Good for You, Good for Your Job!

Want to help your community and look great on your resume? Volunteering at work is the perfect answer! It's a win-win. You help others, learn new skills, and show you care about more than just your job. This guide will show you how to get started.

Why Volunteer at Work? It's Awesome!

Before we jump in, let's talk about why volunteering is so great:

• New Skills! You'll learn stuff you don't usually do at work. This makes your resume shine.
• Meet New People! Volunteering with coworkers is a great way to network. You might even make some new friends!
• Boost Your Career! Showing initiative is a huge plus for your boss. It proves you're a hard worker who cares.
• Feel Good! Helping others is incredibly rewarding. It makes you feel good about yourself.
• Love Your Job Even More! People who volunteer often say they enjoy their jobs more.

And for companies? Employee volunteering is a huge benefit:

• Looks Good! It shows everyone that the company cares about doing the right thing.
• Better Reputation! Companies that give back attract great employees and customers.
• Happier Employees! Happy employees are productive employees.
• Better Teamwork! Volunteering together helps build strong teams.

Finding the Perfect Volunteer Gig

Finding the right volunteer opportunity is key. Here's what to think about:

1. Check Your Company! Many companies have volunteer programs. Ask your HR department or check your company's website.
2. What Do You Love? Pick a cause that truly interests you. Choose something that uses your skills and passions.
3. How Much Time? Be realistic about how much time you can commit. A one-time event? Or something ongoing?
4. Where is it? Make sure the location works for you.
5. What Kind of Volunteering? Hands-on work? Fundraising? Administrative tasks? Find what suits you best.

Making the Most of Your Time

To get the most out of your experience, try this:

• Talk to Your Team: Let your boss and coworkers know your plans. Make sure your work gets covered.
• Be Prepared: Show up on time, dressed appropriately, and ready to work!
• Get Involved: Be enthusiastic and give it your all.
• Learn Something New: Take advantage of the opportunity to grow.
• Network: Meet new people – volunteers and staff.
• Spread the Word: Tell your friends and coworkers about your amazing experience!

Want to Start a Volunteer Program at Your Company?

Doesn't your company have a program? You can help start one! Here's how:

• Write a Proposal: Show your boss how beneficial a volunteer program would be.
• Share Success Stories: Show examples of successful programs at other companies.
• Be a Role Model: Volunteer yourself and show others how rewarding it is.
• Get Others Involved: Show your boss that many people want this.
• Talk to HR: They can help you make it happen.

Show Your Impact

It's important to show how successful your volunteering efforts are. Here's how:

• Numbers: Track volunteer hours, people helped, or money raised.
• Feedback: Get feedback from volunteers and the people you helped.
• Before & After: Compare results before and after the volunteering.
• Share Stories: Share positive experiences from volunteers and beneficiaries.

The Bottom Line: Volunteering Rocks!

Volunteering at work is a fantastic way to help your community, improve your career, and make your company look great. Use this guide to find a great opportunity, make a real difference, and experience the many rewards of volunteering. Even a small contribution can make a huge impact. So get out there and make a difference today!