International Volunteer Day

I feel thankful to have the job that I do. Being able to touch live by serving those that otherwise could not do for their selves. I often feel that those that I care for are part of my family. I get paid for my job, outside my job  I give many hours of unpaid volunteer time as well.

 

 

There are many that do not get paid for their efforts to make the lives of others better. Volunteers are located all around the world. Hundreds of millions of people volunteer around the world with nearly 65 million volunteer in America.

 

 

International Volunteer Day is December 5th of every year. It opens the opportunity to celebrate the important contributions of volunteers as well as offer those willing to volunteer ideas to do so. If you have ever thought about 

• To help others
• To learn about an activity or organization that interests you
• To beat boredom (if you find yourself sitting around the house feeling totally bored, volunteering in an activity you enjoy can be a great way to change things)
• To overcome a loss you have experienced (one of the best ways to help yourself in a time of loss is to help others)
• To gain perspective on life (there is no better way to understand your blessings than to help people in need)

No matter the reason for volunteering you are willing. Volunteering will help you learn about yourself, how others live, and the opportunity to meet people. The next step is finding somewhere to volunteer. Some ideas include:

Homeless Shelters where you could help with meals, in food pantry or other needs
Food Banks where there are many different needs
Ronald McDonald House needs volunteers to visit with others, cook meals and cleaning needs
Special Olympics where volunteers are needed for raising funds to training
Habitat for Humanity is based on volunteer work and volunteers are always
State Parks are in need of volunteers if interested then contact
Read help others learn to read is rewarding as well there are many volunteer opportunities available
Libraries look for volunteers to reshelve books, help in children opportunity as well as other needs
Animal Shelters need volunteers. If you like animals you may want to see how you can help

Political Campaigns with the elections soon taking place may find you right in the action

This is just a short list you may want to check out one of these or find a different opportunity no matter what it is get out there help yourself help others