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I don’t think many people will argue against saying volunteering is a good thing. Volunteering strengthens and improves neighborhoods, supports good causes, provides leadership experience, and looks good on your resume. Volunteering allows you to truly make a difference in the lives of others, and makes you feel good about yourself. Volunteering also makes you more invested in your community, and allows you to pursue your passions. Here at Coro Pittsburgh, we encourage all of our program participants to volunteer, and the staff itself is very active with volunteer roles and projects. For those of you who may still need some convincing, here are some other benefits of volunteering I’ve discovered.
Easy networking
Networking is a natural outcome of volunteering. You’re bound to start chatting with the people you’re working with, which could result in excellent contacts. Networking with your fellow volunteers is less awkward than talking to strangers at networking events. So, if networking still makes you uncomfortable, volunteering is a great way to practice. Also, volunteering will make you more memorable to someone than if you simply exchanged cards at an event.
Free Stuff
Attending galas and fundraisers supports great causes, but can get expensive. This is especially true if you’re still a student or just entering the workforce. When you volunteer for an event, free admission is usually part of the deal. This way you get free entry, and most likely food and drinks as well, in exchange for a couple hours of volunteer work. You can attend all of the fantastic events you want without it costing you a thing.
Left-overs, t-shirts, and other goodies are usually distributed to volunteers as well. You can even pay off student loans by volunteering through organizations like SponsorChange.
Dating
In addition to making great contacts, volunteering is an excellent way to meet potential dates. It’s easy to start a conversation, and it’s been my experience that volunteers tend to be outgoing, ambitious, and fun people. I’ve gone on more dates with guys I’ve met at fundraising events, than I’ve met out at the bar.
So, whatever your reasons for volunteering, it’s awesome. For those of you who are already active volunteers, keep up the good work. For everyone else, I encourage you to check out the amazing organizations that could really use your help.
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Comments
07.30.09
I totally agree. I'm looking for ways to volunteer more locally (http://lifesspices.blogspot.com/2009/07/volunteer-donate-help.html)
I feel like with everything going on around me, I'm doing pretty well, and I should be able to offer help to others.
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