Know what you want to do.Take some time to think about how you want to help. Start with the basics: What do you like to do? What are you good at? What issues concern you?
Discover the volunteer opportunities in Calvert County. Visit our Volunteer Resource link to 1-800 Volunteer.org. Once you have created an account, you will have the ability to set a personal volunteer goal for yourself, search and save posted opportunities that interest you, manage your record of service, view your volunteering calendar, and set-up automatic notifications using VolunteerAlerts that deliver emails to your inbox with opportunities that match you interest and availability.
Be understanding.Organizations cannot always take you on as a volunteer, even though you’re willing to help. If an organization can’t use you at this time, don’t be discouraged. Find an organization that needs you now.
Be honest.Make sure that you are honest about your skills and time commitment so that you can be matched to a volunteer opportunity that suits you best.
Be persistent. If someone doesn’t call or e-mail you back immediately, don’t assume they don’t need you. Most organizations have small budgets and staffs to handle overwhelming demands, and they are usually very busy. Follow-up to the organization with a phone call.
When you volunteer:
Be responsible.Make sure to dress and act appropriately, and show up on time. If you’re going to be late or absent, call the volunteer coordinator as soon as possible.
Be realistic.You may not always see the impact of your efforts. Volunteering is hard work; the problems are often profound, and the victories usually small. Don’t ever doubt you are making a significant contribution. You are.
Be humble.Most people will thank you for your efforts, but some may not. Remember that people appreciate your efforts, even if they don’t say it.
Be creative.Volunteer your skills and ideas as well as your time. Think about all the ways you can use your unique talents to make a difference, and talk about your ideas with everyone. Work to make your new ideas solve old problems.
