Volunteering, what's the BEST that can happen?

As we celebrate the kick-off of Volunteer Week here in North Durham, it's a great opportunity to talk about TAKING CHANCES! For many, the prospect of being a public-facing volunteer is daunting. But it doesn't have to be that way and I'll tell you why! Taking a chance on a volunteer position means taking a chance on yourself. It means giving yourself the space and opportunity to grow and build confidence.

Picture this, you're a shy introvert who isn't really the best at making new friends. You're new to town and you want to branch out and get out of the house but the idea of trying something new is out of your comfort zone. I was this person!! But then one day I decided to say "yes" to an opportunity that came my way and that was the chance to captain a dragon boat team that raised money for local charitable groups. That was my gateway to the volunteer world and from then on I was hooked! I took a chance, threw caution to the wind and went with it! Was I awkward at first? I still am! But I'm ok with that and as it turns out, the people around me are ok with it too.

Here are the top five AWESOME things that will happen when you take a chance on volunteering:

1. You will meet amazing people! The kind of people who volunteer are the kind of people who are interested in the same things you are....making friends, getting out, supporting a beloved cause. These are the people driving change in your community; the ones with heart and determination. They are incredible people to work with and each and every one of them will leave you with something special whether it's advice, a new skill or a lasting friendship.

2. You will develop new skills! Learn how to use a P.O S system, how to conduct tours, how to do ticket-taking, apply for grants, fundraise...the list is endless! I have learned SO MUCH from my volunteer colleagues over the years, including the kinds of skills I can use in my daily life and work.

3. You will make a REAL impact in your community. Many people talk about "giving back" and while financial donations are impactful and meaningful, nothing beats offering your talents and your time to an organization who needs it. Many events, festivals and organizations can't function without a volunteer team. By putting up your hand and "taking a chance," you are helping to ensure that things really get done in your community. Every volunteer contribution from the person stacking chairs after an event to the person planning it is providing vital support.

4. You will grow your network! Whether you are a business owner or just an average joe, volunteering gives you the ability to interact with all sorts of people from all walks of life. Networking is a large part of volunteerism. Once you've worked with a few organizations, you'll start to develop your own network of people you can count on, trusted vendors, business owners who love to give back and just all-around great people. Having a network of people in your life is an asset that you will use time and time again!

5. Your heart will grow 10 sizes! Volunteering isn't just great for your resume or your high school hours form, it is truly rewarding! Is it hard work? Absolutely! But there is a very real reward at the end and that is the feeling you are left with after everyone goes home. Maybe you read to a senior or helped care for a grieving family at the Hospice. Perhaps you've volunteered to wear a mascot costume or do road safety at the Santa Claus Parade. At the end of the day, when you go home...there is a visceral feeling of accomplishment that just can't be beat. The smiles and thank you's from the public are also a nice perk.

So what comes next? Once you've decided to take the leap, take some time to research an organization or event that suits your interests. This will go a long way in making sure the work is meaningful for you. Love music? Volunteer at the Springtide Festival in Uxbridge. Passionate about Environmentalism? Help your local Lions Club divert glasses and cell phones from landfills through their collection programs. There is so much to do and a role for everyone. Go ahead and try it....after all, what's the best that can happen?

For a listing of volunteer opportunities across North Durham, please visit stepupstepout.ca or click on the Volunteer tab on our website! You can also follow us on Facebook to get the latest events and volunteer news!