How to improve the IMPACT you create as a volunteer!

Do your homework and choose wisely - take the time to seek out an organisation whose mission speaks to you. Know what the Cause does, how they need help and if you can help them in a way that’s meaningful and useful. Ask other people if they know the Cause and if they have volunteered with them before. 

Apply your skills - what do you have to offer and how will your skills help the Cause? If there’s a match between your skills and the task the Cause needs done - it will be much easier and you'll have a lot more fun!

Be flexible and willing to learn -  trying things, visiting new places and interacting with people out of your comfort zone forces you to learn and adjust - a great skill to have. Don't be scared to ask questions!

Involve your friends & family -  when a family volunteers together, it’s a win-win for everyone. Volunteering can teach children the value of giving, introduce new experiences and create special memories for the whole family.

Be yourself and have fun - helping others shouldn’t feel like a chore. Even the most mundane task can be fun if you tackle it with a sense of humour.

Make no excuses - stick to your commitments. Once you’ve committed to helping a Cause, make sure you follow through (unless the situation is dire). You don’t like to be disappointed and neither do Causes. Do what you say you'll do, and do your best. Don't show up late and always keep your promises. People will be relying on you. 

Don't make it about you - amazing volunteers think less about what they can get from the experience and more about what and how they can contribute.

Be respectful - show respect for other people & cultures. Try your best to understand what other people are going through, even if it's something you've never dealt with yourself.

Think of new ideas to improve situations - always stay two steps ahead. Think of how to do any task in a different and more efficient manner. Talk about your suggestions, your perspective is valuable – but don’t forget that the team you’re volunteering with has considerably more experience that you. Be proactive and creative.

Lastly - communicate. If you're having problems with your task - don't be scared to tell the Cause. If you feel your skills were applied and you have made a difference - give feedback to the Cause. The best way to improve the volunteering experience from both perspectives is by clear communication.