Happy 2024! The start of a new year is a good time to think about changes and new challenges. Giving your time through volunteering is a great way to have new experiences, meet new people and try things you may not have done before – all while you are making a difference to your community.
What is volunteering?
Quite simply, volunteering is about giving your time. This can take many different forms, such as:
- Helping out in a local group or at event
- Visiting and talking to someone regularly
- Practical help such as driving, repairing, sewing or cooking.
Volunteering can be a regular commitment, but it doesn’t have to be. There are many short-term or one-off opportunities.
Volunteering is good for you
Research shows that connecting with others and the act of giving are two of the key factors that help improve our well-being. Volunteering is good for you – as well as the community around you.
Tips for finding the right role for you:
- Think about how much time you want to give. Are you looking for a regular commitment or something short-term? What days and times work best for you? Regular opportunities don’t have to be frequent – trustee boards, for example, typically meet every two months, with some work in between.
- What causes do you care about? Think about where and how you want to make a difference.
- What you would like to get out of volunteering? You might want to meet people, learn something new, use your skills or experience, or just get out of the house. Any reason is valid.
- Think about what you don’t want to do.
Make a plan to give your time today
Browse through our volunteering opportunities and subscribe to our newsletter to get monthly updates on volunteer opportunities in your area.