Another beautiful day! Ohio weather is crazy. We had one amazing day with the hot sun and a cool breeze and the next day there was a huge storm. I don’t know what it is about this place, but most who live here say, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes!”
I apologize for the slow-down in posts, but there is a good reason! Last week I had exam week, and I am finally finished. Today I had a second interview with a job I applied for on campus and… I got the job! I’m very excited, and will probably start soon. The good news is, this job will allow me some more time to plan and write for Deliciae so there will be no dramatic changes. I may even post more.
This is the final post of the Make Your Mark series, which will focus on any extra information you may need to know including some small warnings, what to expect on your first few days of volunteering, and more.
If you’ve missed out on any or all of the rest of the series, here’s a list of what’s been going on:
- An introduction to volunteering
- Finding opportunities that match what you do best
- How to find volunteer listings virtually or locally
- and Making sure you have the items you need
Do Some Prior Research!
There are many reasons you should probably do a little research into an organization you’re looking to work for. If you’re volunteering at a building you know of and are familiar to, you need not worry, but if you’re volunteering for a “stranger” or a building you haven’t known previously, you should do a bit of a background check just to see if it is indeed a legit business who will be responsible with your personal information. I’m not saying there are many illegitimate businesses out there, but I think it’s good to take some caution!
You can do this on your own by doing a few simple Google searches, look up their background information, or even call and ask for further information about their organization, what their mission statement is, and what types of volunteers they are looking for.
What To Expect During Your First Few Days
1. During your first few days, you’ll most likely be filling out paperwork. Sometimes it’s necessary, but once you’re done with that, the work begins!
2. Your supervisor will show you the ropes, introduce you to other volunteers, and give you their policy.
3. Then the regular work begins! Stick with it. Some beginning work may feel tedious at first, but once you get the hang of it and realize how much you are actually contributing and affecting, you’ll know it’s worth it and you’ll have some fun.
4.You’ll start feeling great! Keep at it. Remember, you can stop anytime. No pressure.
Remember:
- Organizations looking for volunteers are very lenient and kind regarding your schedule. Again, there’s really no pressure here. They may require a certain number of hours a week, but it’s usually always free for you to decide when to come in. Any help is good help.
- Have some fun with it! Network and meet new people. You could make a lifetime friend or an important connection into your big life career! There are thousands of opportunities surrounding this activity so be an opportunist! Take advantage!
- If you haven’t had a job, this is the perfect practice. Those in high school or even middle school could benefit greatly by learning responsibility and the value of time and generosity.
- Know when to not volunteer.
Helpful Links
Search engines:
Hud.gov (Good place to start!)
VolunteerMatch (Also a very good place!)
Idealist.org
Volunteer.gov
Volunteers of America
1-800-Volunteer.org
A few organizations:
The Humane Society
Habitat for Humanity
American Red Cross
Rotary
CMT’s One Country
Peace Corps
Big Brothers Big Sisters
That’s it for this series! Thanks for sticking with me, and I hope I’ve helped further you along in your volunteer search. It truly is a great expereince. The feeling you get helping others in need is comparable to no other, I promise. Have a nice day!
Did you know that you can do volunteer work from home? There are many virtual opportunities out there with 
Deliciae 