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Have you ever wanted to give back to your community but didn’t know exactly where to start?

My purpose is to make a difference. In the past I have never really thought about volunteering or giving back to my community. This is something that I really wish I would have looked into a long time ago. I am currently looking into organizations in the Carson City Nevada area to volunteer at. I feel that volunteering is a big deal and should be taken seriously. I encourage everyone, if they can find the time, to look into an organization and see what they can do to help.

When I first decided to volunteer, I didn’t know where to start. Just recently I stumbled over the article ”10 Easy Ways to Get Involved In Your Community“. I feel this is a good read and it offers great information on how to get started on making a difference within your community.

1. Research the causes and issues important to you.

Studies have proven that you will be more likely to stick with a cause that is supportive towards something you feel strongly about.

2. Consider the skills you have to offer.

If you volunteer to do something that you already know you are capable of performing you will be able to jump right into the work without having to train in preparation for the assignment.

3. Try something new.

Although this might involve more of a time commitment, choosing to volunteer trying something new will benefit you as well as allow you to give back.

4. Combine your goals.

What better way to kill two birds with one stone? If you combine your volunteer work with a personal goal you will be accomplishing more than one goal. An example of this could be, if you are trying to loose weight… volunteer at a day camp or somewhere where you can be active.

5. Don’t over-commit your schedule.

Overcommitting yourself can lead to exhaustion. Be sure to plan ahead and make sure that you can fit volunteering into your busy schedule.

6. Non-profits may have questions too.

To be sure that you have the skills needed, that you are truly committed to doing the work, and that your interests match those of the non-profit, you may be called in for an interview before being allowed to volunteer.

7.Consider volunteering as a family.

When a family volunteers together, the experience can bring them closer. Doing this together may also introduce everyone in the family to skills and experiences never before encountered.

8. Virtual volunteering.

There are ways of volunteering via the internet. You can join a street team, or spread the word about an organization through social networking. This sort of volunteering might be well suited for people who have limited time, no transportation, or a physical disability that precludes them from getting about freely

9. I never thought of that!

Here are some places that you might have never thought were looking for volunteers: child care centers, hospitals, half-way houses, education establishments, prisons, museums and soup kitchens. (Just to name a few). There are a lot of volunteer opportunities out there, just waiting to be discovered.

10 .Give voice to your heart through volunteering.

Be yourself! Bring your personality with you, that in itself will make a difference. Sometimes all others need is positive human interactions, to make a difference in their life.

Again, my purpose is to make a difference. If anyone has any suggestions or knows about any available volunteer work in the Carson City/Reno area, please share with me!

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has” – Margaret Mead