Finding Volunteer Opportunities

I always wanted to donate to causes I read about or saw on the television, but I was always too young or too low on funds to send in a check. I recently realized that donating money is not the only way to help out a great cause-you can also donate your time. There are many ways to get connected with causes who are seeking volunteers: volunteermatch.com, local publications and newsletters from charitable organizations are three different ways to get connected.

The internet is a great way to get connected with places that need volunteers. Organizations like the Red Cross to local charity causes such as "Momma's House" post their ads for volunteers all the time. Websites such as Volunteermatch.com let you choose what type of cause you'd like to volunteer for and enter your location information. The website then shows you a list of different causes you can help within five to sixty miles of your location. If you're a stay at home mom and aren't able to leave home without the kids or just too busy to take on volunteer work outside the home, there are also virtual volunteer opportunities. Some virtual opportunities include, but are not limited to, web and graphic design, grant writing, data entry and telemarketing. Aside from using this great service, most charitable organizations have their own websites where they post up volunteer opportunities.

Local publications may also have volunteer opportunities listed. From your local church's bulletin to the local newspaper, read through and see what opportunities are available to you. Church bulletins may include opportunities to help with programs through the church itself and an affiliated school. Local newspapers may list opportunities for local charities and programs at public schools.

Print or electronic newsletters will also contain leads for volunteering. Included in the body or a special section, there may be lists of opportunities. Print newsletters may contain available opportunities and direct contact information for you to use if interested. E-mail newsletters will more than likely contain direct links for volunteer opportunities and e-mail addresses of who to contact.

Whether you'd like to help out for the long run or just for a weekend-there are always opportunities to donate your time to a worthy cause. There are many different types of volunteer projects around that are available to anyone; you just have to find them! Even if you don't believe you have the time to volunteer, you can also donate new or gently household items to local charities.