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What is a volunteer?
A volunteer is someone who freely gives their time and energy for the
benefit of others.
Why become a
volunteer? If you are looking
for a job
You stand a much better chance of getting a
job if you are doing voluntary work.
Employers always take volunteering
into account:
 it shows initiative
you gain experience, learn new skills and you can
access training
you make useful contacts, and can prove your
ability
you significantly improve your chances of getting a
funded post within the voluntary sector.
If you are
retired
your skills and experience don't go to waste - you can
pass them on the others at your own pace
you can keep in touch with your community
you can try something new!
If you are at a loose
end for whatever reason
Doing voluntary
work:
can be a means of meeting new people
is good for your self esteem
builds up confidence
can help you feel 'useful'
Even people who are
unfit for paid work can do voluntary work
If you are
employed
There is no reason why you can't have the same benefits
from doing voluntary work as those who are not!
you can also get that good feeling that comes from
helping someone else
meet new people
learn new skills
change career direction
Why involve
volunteers in your organisation?
obviously you get an extra pair of hands (or
two)!
time and energy is freely given - volunteers can be
very highly motivated
the most vulnerable groups of people, those most
dependent on others appreciate the attention of an unpaid
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