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Ideas for Volunteer Projects |
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Monday, 16 November 2009 12:34 |
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Although volunteers are needed all year round, this time of year is certainly a great opportunity for us to focus on all the things we are grateful for and to renew our commitment to serve others. Below are a few ideas to help you get started.
For Individuals
- Be a tutor or a mentor. Get involved with an adult literacy program, help a student with homework, lead a sports activity, etc. Teach a class. Fluent in another language? Consider teaching English to recently resettled refugees and other immigrants. Are you a computer whiz? Teach a computer skills class for older adults, people without access to a computer at home, or people who are unemployed.
- Donate your professional services. Are you a licensed counselor? Registered nurse or doctor? Lawyer? Donate some of your time and expertise to a local organization such as a shelter for abused women or a free health clinic. Do you work in a beauty salon? Help residents at a nursing home feel beautiful by styling their hair or giving them a manicure or pedicure.
- Make use of your personal experience. Are you a Veteran? Consider volunteering to help homeless veterans in your community. Did you experience an unplanned pregnancy, a period of homelessness or an abusive relationship? Volunteer to help someone in a similar situation.
For Families
- Help recently arrived immigrant children and their families celebrate their first Thanksgiving in the US by collecting food and kitchen supplies. Buy Christmas gifts for a family living at a shelter or for children in need in your area.
- Help an elderly neighbor keep up on yard work, invite a lonely neighbor over for dinner, or bring a welcome basket to someone who recently moved into your community.
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