What does a Volunteer do?
Published 3 min read
A volunteer is a person who donates their time and energy to a cause or organization. They are not paid for their work, but do it out of the goodness of their heart. Volunteers typically choose to work with a cause that they are passionate about, such as the environment, children, the elderly, or the sick.
Volunteer job duties include:
- Contact potential volunteers and explain the requirements and benefits of volunteering
- Plan and coordinate volunteer recruitment drives
- Conduct orientation sessions for new volunteers
- Match volunteers with opportunities based on their skills, interests, and availability
- Place volunteers in positions that best utilize their skills and meet the needs of the organization
- Monitor volunteer performance and provide feedback
- Coordinate recognition and appreciation activities for volunteers
- Resolve conflicts between volunteers or between volunteers and staff
- Maintain records of all volunteers and volunteer hours
Volunteer Job Requirements
There are no formal job requirements for a Volunteer. However, many organizations prefer Volunteers who have some education and/or experience in the area in which they will be working. Additionally, some organizations may require Volunteers to complete a training program or certification process.
Volunteer Skills
- Patience
- Empathy
- Listening
- Communication
- Flexibility
- Leadership
- Organization
- Problem solving
- Public speaking
- Writing
- Research
Related: Top Volunteer Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and help others. There are many different ways to volunteer, so there is sure to be a perfect fit for you. Here are a few tips on how to become a volunteer:
1. Decide what you’re interested in. There are many different causes that need volunteers, so think about what you’re passionate about. Do you want to help the environment? Work with children? Help the elderly? Once you know what area you’d like to focus on, you can start looking for specific opportunities.
2. Do some research. Once you know what type of volunteering you’d like to do, start looking for organizations that need volunteers in that area. You can search online, ask friends and family, or look in the phone book.
3. Contact the organization. Once you’ve found a few organizations that interest you, contact them and ask about volunteering opportunities. Be sure to ask about their requirements (such as age, time commitment, etc.) so that you can be sure it’s a good fit for you.
4. Get started! Once you’ve found the perfect opportunity, it’s time to get started! Show up for your shifts on time and ready to work, and be sure to follow the organization’s guidelines. Volunteering is a great way to give back, so enjoy it and make the most of it!
Related: Volunteer Resume Example
Related: Volunteer Interview Questions (With Example Answers)