Volunteering is one of the most important acts that can be done to help a community and make a difference, and there are many ways to volunteer in Brooklyn. In some cases, the experience can make a good asset when included on a resume to stand out among other applicants.
Once a volunteer opportunity is found that fits a schedule and interests, it will assist nonprofit organizations and other causes build a better community. Many of these charities rely on volunteers to achieve goals and remain productive. Without volunteers, many of these nonprofits cannot function at their highest level. Volunteering can also save money spent on paid employees, supports families and other individuals in the community who cannot support themselves and improves educational systems.
Organizations and establishments that offer volunteering opportunities
Brooklyn is one borough that prides itself on its volunteering opportunities and offers several ways to get involved. Common places that have volunteer opportunities include:
- Homeless shelters to prepare and serve food to the homeless.
- Animal shelters need help walking dogs and with administrative help.
- Home constructionRe organizations. Some nonprofits build homes or perform repairs on existing homes for little to no cost. Volunteer opportunities could include construction or cleaning jobs.
- Retirement homes require help to teach art classes, read a book once a week or just be a friend to a lonely senior.
- Libraries seek volunteers to organize bookshelves, participate in weekly reading events and assist library visitors.
These ways to volunteer in Brooklyn are just a few examples of the many opportunities available in the borough.
Tips for choosing and applying for a volunteer opportunity
When looking for a volunteer opportunity, it’s important to consider your personal interests and goals to ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you find the right volunteer opportunity for you:
1. Determine Your Passion
Passion is a key factor in choosing how to help. Research organizations and their vision to determine if it aligns with your values and interests. Avoid simply following trends or popularity. This is a chance to make a difference and better your life.
2. Ask Questions
Reach out to several organizations and ask questions to get to know them better. Ask other volunteers about their experience to get inspiration and guidance in finding the right fit.
3. Create a Volunteer Resume
A volunteer resume should list previous experience as well as skills, providing an edge over other applicants. It will also allow organizations to quickly find the most appropriate volunteer position.
4. Provide a Clear Schedule
Figure out how many hours and days you can devote to volunteering and be realistic. A consistent schedule shows reliability and is essential for organizations that strongly rely on volunteer time, especially when a senior is involved.
5. Get Details about the Volunteer Position
Ensure a clear understanding of the tasks involved, the level of commitment needed, and any required training. This will help with preparation for the position and strengthen your understanding of what’s expected.
6. Applying
Take time to ensure proper grammar and spelling, and provide references when needed. In some cases, an interview may be required, especially for positions involving leading others or handling sensitive information.
7. Follow Up
Following up ensures the application was received and shows devotion for the opportunity. Nonprofit organizations are often busy and have limited resources, so a follow-up call or email after two or three days can help.
8. Complete Required Training
Schedule time for volunteering and training, as some organizations require certification or a completed training course before starting.
Here are some other factors to consider when looking for ways to volunteer
Start Small
Plan to schedule only a month or two into the future before making a full commitment. Once you find comfort and enjoyment, continue and consider giving more time to the organization.
Be Professional
Treat the commitment as you would a paying job. Show up on time and complete the work as required. Being reliable and professional makes a positive impact on the agency.
Assess Volunteer Experience
Check your progress every few months to see if you still enjoy the volunteer position. If not, you may want to consider searching for another volunteer opportunity in your area. You could also speak to the volunteer coordinator to see if there are other roles available within the same organization.
Brooklyn has many different volunteer opportunities available and will happily accept anyone interested in helping to join their teams. Applying is simple and a variety of positions are available by contacting local companies, researching online or viewing this article on the best places to volunteer in Brooklyn.
You may also want to consider volunteering with Ecotone
In addition to the various volunteer opportunities available in Brooklyn, Ecotone is another one to consider. At Ecotone, we offer opportunities for volunteers to participate in community wellness through woodworking workshops, gardening activities, and art contests. We believe in the power of community engagement and are always looking for passionate individuals to join our team. If you are interested in learning more about our volunteer opportunities, please reach out to us. We would be more than happy to speak with you and provide more information about how you can get involved in community wellness efforts in Brooklyn. Together, we can make a difference and improve the lives of those in our local community.
