Volunteering… Presented by the Volunteer Centre of St. Lawrence-Rideau

What is a volunteer? A volunteer is someone who works for a community or for the benefit of the environment primarily because they choose to do so. Many serve through a non-profit organization – sometimes referred to as formal volunteering, but a significant number also serve less formally, either individually or as part of a group. By definition, a volunteer worker does not get paid or receive compensation for services rendered other than reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses. »Source: Wikipedia (

Why Should I Volunteer? Discover your strengths & interests A chance to practice decision making, problem-solving, and leadership skills Develop employable skills such as interpersonal and communication skills, teamwork, time management, ability to take initiative »Continued..

Build a terrific resume/cover letter Networking opportunity Get good references Explore career options Knowledge that you have made a difference in the lives of others

What other ways could I benefit? There are other positives that you may not be aware of, according to an Ontario study of the health benefits of volunteering: –Reduced stress level, anxiety, and depression –Improved self-esteem –Increased mental functioning in older adults –Motivation to maintain a better lifestyle

How does an agency benefit? Provide a link to the community Broadening the range of knowledge and expertise Provide a voice in the community for the organization and it’s causes Increase capacity to expand services

Before you volunteer.. Things to consider before deciding on a volunteer position: –Why do you want to volunteer? –How much time you have to volunteer, and when are you available? –What jobs do you not want to do? –Is there a specific organization or age group of people that you would like to assist?

Not sure where to focus? Are you…Consider … People – orientedFriendly visiting with a senior A take-charge personHeading a fundraising event or chairing a board or committee A nature loverPlanting a heritage garden Always on the moveVolunteer driver A sponge for knowledgeBeing a museum interpreter Bi/multi-lingualTranslating for newcomers to Canada ArtisticTeaching art and craft programs A computer specialistHelping a charity creating a website or graphic design AthleticBeing a coach for a sports team

What may be involved when pursuing a volunteer opportunity? An agency will employ a screening process that could include some or all of the following: –Application forms –Interviews –Reference check –Police record check

Why a screening process? It is designed to identify any person (volunteer or staff) who may not be appropriate for a specific position. Advantages of screening: –Create and maintain a safe environment –Ensure an appropriate match between volunteer and task

Sample interview questions Have you volunteered before? Why do you want to volunteer with this organization? What would you like to get out of this volunteer experience? What are your interests? When are you available to volunteer? What skills and abilities would you like to share or obtain? Are you prepared to provide references and a police record check?

Questions you may want to ask What work will I be doing? How much experience does this position need? What type of training is involved? Will your organization provide me with a letter of reference?

References If you are asked to provide references you will need to submit names and contact information for 2-3 people who can speak on your behalf. –Employer, teacher, club leader, leader of faith community –The individual should have known you for at least 6 months to 2 years, and be able to speak to your abilities, trustworthiness, and dependability.

Police Records Checks Some organizations will ask potential volunteers to provide a police records check This request is dependent on the nature of the volunteer position Requirements and instructions to acquire the check will be advised by the organization to which you are applying

A note to volunteer-place ethics Ethics are sometimes at risk in a volunteer position Here are some important factors to be mindful of: –Arrive on time –Dress appropriately –Act professionally –Be respectful of others –Listen to instructions –Don’t be afraid to ask for help –Notify your contact/volunteer coordinator if you cannot fulfill your committed time –Maintain confidentiality

Invaluable Volunteers Many agencies would not be able to provide services crucial to the community without the commitment of volunteers The benefits of volunteering are far-reaching, and are worth the small amount of effort it takes to secure a volunteer position

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