Volunteer Salt Spring

Did You Know?

• Volunteers are enhancing the quality of life all around us, every day, in a variety of ways.

• Studies show that volunteers live longer and lead more fulfilling lives.

• The volunteer or "non-profit" sector is one of the three major components of our country's economy along with the corporate or "for-profit" sector and government.

• The 1998 National Survey on Giving, Participating and Volunteering (NSGVP) in Canada found that volunteers in B.C. contribute 169 million hours each year. This is the equivalent of 88,000 full-time jobs.

• The NSGPV also found a higher percentage of rural British Columbians volunteer compared to volunteers in more densely populated areas.

Points to Ponder...

What Motivates You?

Think about your reasons for volunteering—it can help you  decide which volunteer opportunity is right for you.

• Having fun

• Meeting new people

• Sharing talents and abilities

• Exploring strengths

• Socializing

• Supporting a cause

• Learning new skills

• Building confidence

• Experience personal satisfaction

• Learning about a new group or community

• Exploring career options

• Securing job references

• Using skills and experience

• Giving back to the community

• Helping others

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Where Do I Want To Volunteer?

• Think about your interests. What are you drawn to? Is it theatre? Animals? A cause such as saving the environment or cancer research?

• What existing skills and resources can you bring to the volunteer position?

• What do you want to get from your volunteer experience?

• How much of a commitment can you make in terms of time?

• Do you want to work with others or alone? Indoors or outside? Weekends or evenings?

Who Can Help Me Decide?

A variety of individuals and groups can give you information and suggestions about volunteer options you may want to consider.

• Check out the Volunteer Opportunities posted here on the Volunteer Salt Spring website. You will find information about positions available locally, as well as links to national and international opportunities.

• Talk to friends, family or co-workers about their volunteer experiences.

• Contact organizations directly to ask about what they have to offer volunteers.

• If you're a student, ask around at school.  Check with a teacher or counsellor, many schools have programs to help students find individual or group volunteer assignments. 

Before You Volunteer be sure to learn about the 15 Essential Questions to Ask a Voluntary Agency

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Copyright 2006 Volunteer Salt Spring
Last Updated on  21/11/2006    Website design by Anne Williams