June 20, 2011


Help Others, Help Yourself: Volunteer Opportunities in the 801

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CLEARLINK Volunteers

Once the realm of boy scouts and nuns, volunteering has become as hip as mini-donuts and boho jeans.

And why not?

Volunteering is a tangible way to help others. It allows you to create change in your community, provides a new perspective, and offers a sense of accomplishment.

Besides that, volunteering makes you feel like a freaking superhero.

Such benefits are not anecdotal. Research supports the positive physical and emotional effects of volunteering, to the point that doctors have been known to “prescribe” volunteer work for clinically depressed patients. Across the Atlantic, volunteering is vital enough that the European Union has declared 2011 the Official Year of Volunteering, with one in five EU citizens donating their time and energy to help others.

Closer to home, many Clearlinkers are active volunteers, too. A quick poll of some of your colleagues yielded the following responses:

  • “I volunteer by doing community outreach for a public radio station. I go to farmers’ markets, concerts, and other events to talk to people about the station’s programs and involvement in our community.”
  • “I am a volunteer coach of a middle school football team. Football is a huge part of my life, and I like helping the kids accomplish something they never thought they could.”
  • “I volunteer at a domestic violence shelter, teaching yoga and meditation skills to kids. I try to take their minds off what they’ve been through, even for just an hour a week.”
  • “I volunteered at the Race for the Cure, handing out cups of water to thirsty runners.”
  • “I volunteer with animal rescue groups who need people to foster pets until they’re adopted.”
  • “I take my therapy dog to senior care centers and facilities for people with special needs. We talk to patients and try to brighten their days.”
  • “Two nights a month, I answer calls for the rape and domestic violence hotline. I help get victims the medical care and emotional support they need.”

Impressive, right? Clearlinkers are pretty awesome people.

Think you’re ready to volunteer?

Awesome! But don’t rush out and start dragging old ladies across the street just yet. Take a minute to find your ideal volunteer opportunity by answering these questions:

  1. How much time are you willing to donate? When you start volunteering, your desire to help others and make a difference will make it easy for you to over-commit. This newbie mistake can lead to frustration and burn-out, and your volunteering mojo will fizzle fast. Instead of jumping in with both feet, start small–maybe a couple hours a month. Once you get used to the time and emotional commitment, you can ramp up your efforts.
  2. What are you truly passionate about? Is there one issue you care about more than any other? Do you adore animals or cherish children? Are you an eco-warrior or education advocate? Before settling on a volunteer location, figure out what matters most to you. Volunteering requires too deep a personal commitment to do something you’re not totally into; make sure you volunteer for a cause you truly believe in.
  3. Are you ready to get real? Volunteering is not a joke. Organizations rely on you to show up on time, act professionally, and conduct yourself appropriately at all times.

Many facilities require volunteers to provide references or submit to a full background check. Certain organizations also expect volunteers to sign and adhere to confidentiality agreements. Don’t become a volunteer if you’re not ready to get real about the very serious issues and situations you may face.

Still interested?

Cool! Let’s get you volunteering!

There are myriad volunteer opportunities around Salt Lake City. The following websites are categorized by type of organization. If you have a favorite cause but don’t see it on this list, just call and ask if they could use a hand; chances are they’ll put you right to work.

Volunteering with Adults and Families

Volunteering with Children

Volunteering in Nature

Volunteering with Animals

Volunteering in the Arts

Other Volunteering Resources

One final thought: Volunteering doesn’t have to happen through an organized group. If you’re heading to the store, offer to pick something up for your roommate or an elderly neighbor. Are you able-bodied? Offer to mow the lawn of the busy single mom down the street. Help a friend’s child improve her math or reading skills over the summer.

Volunteering is about helping where you can, when you can, if you can. It makes the world a closer, kinder place for all of us.

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