About Volunteering


The basics Volunteering is simple. It's about giving your time to do something useful, without getting paid (apart from expenses). In return you get the satisfaction of time and effort well spent. In addition, volunteering can be a great way to: meet new people learn new skills gain useful experience Make a difference It should also be fun! The range of opportunities is huge. Whatever skills and experience you have, there is something that you can do. The best way to see what is available is to browse on the internet and search for Volunteering to get started. The biggest problem for many people is finding the time to volunteer. It can reduce your choices if you don't have much time to spare, but many busy people do find suitable opportunities. Again, have a look on the different volunteer sites and see what they offer. Going on a visit is usually a commitment for a few hours during the holidays. There are no age-limits on volunteering, but there can sometimes be difficulties for people under-16 or over-65, mostly for insurance reasons. If you have any concerns, ask the organization that you are applying to. Once you start volunteering you should usually expect: time commitment for the specific volunteer opportunity a clear idea of what your role will be appropriate training and support If you aren't clear about anything, don't be afraid to ask someone. If you need further assistance try your local Volunteer Center.

	Top Ten Tips Hints to help you start volunteering.

		Think about what you want from volunteering - new skills, fun, a chance to contribute to a cause?
		Think about what you have to offer - enthusiasm, work skills, life skills?
		Work out roughly how much time you have to give, and how many times a week or month.
		Browse! The best way to find out what's available is to do some 'Volunteer' searches on a search engine, or go to VolunteerMatch and put in your zip code, or you can volunteer with one of our Localities by emailing them.
		Narrow down - if you get too many results to manage when you search , narrow them down by selecting from the activity and category drop-down menus.
		Increase the distance - if you don't get many results try increasing the distance searched
		Consult the help section of the volunteer page if you still have problems searching for an opportunity.
		Remember that everyone can volunteer - whatever your skills, experience or background you should be able to find an opportunity.
		Ask questions - don't be shy about asking questions as you go through the process of applying for an opportunity.
		Just try it - often the most difficult part of volunteering is making the first move, so be brave!

	10 Tips for Successful Nursing Home Visits
		Prepare your children for what they might see, including wheelchairs, catheters, and some elderly people who are loud, confused or unresponsive
		Read some books about older people before you go. Discuss the importance of respect
		Assure your children that it is fine to ask questions, but respect the feelings and privacy of the residents
		Don't visit if your children are ill
		Make arrangements to visit ahead of time and always come when you say you will
		Plan ahead what you're going to do when you visit
		Knock first and ask permission before before entering a resident's room
		If you bring a food to share, be sure it is something the person can eat, some residents have diet restrictions
		If you bring a gift, make sure it is appropriate and gender specific
		Don't be in a hurry, take time with each person your family interacts with
*Contact us:* Phone: (707) 922-5845 E-Mail The Holiday Project

The basics

Top Ten Tips