CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
With the holiday season quickly approaching, it is easy to get caught up in the rampant consumerism that typically surrounds Christmas. While the stores are crowded with shoppers desperate to find presents and save a little money too, wouldn't it be great to give something from the heart? I urge you to consider giving some of your time to make a difference -- volunteer.
Many organizations depend on volunteers to improve the lives of others in the community. Winston Churchill said, "You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give." Volunteering is a great way to further a cause; support an organization and make a difference in your community. It can also be an opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills. If you'd like to give something besides money, consider lending your time and talents to organizations that are important to you.
There are a couple things you should consider before you get started. The first is: why do you want to volunteer? If you choose to help only because your annual performance report is coming due and you're lacking in the "whole person" arena, you should re-evaluate. While good help is always needed, you would be a more effective volunteer for the organization and personally get more satisfaction if you truly want to make a long-term difference. There are thousands of organizations that would appreciate the commitment of your time, whether it is on a short-term or long-term basis. Most military members serve their county not for money, but because of their patriotic feelings and earnest belief that they can make a difference. These same values and beliefs are what make a great volunteer.
When selecting an organization to help, consider what is meaningful to you. Would you like to make a difference in your local community or worldwide? Of course you want to support an organization that interests you and shares the goals you feel are important. For instance, if you enjoy working with your hands and want to learn some carpentry skills, Habitat for Humanity is always looking for help. If you want to work with children, local schools are normally eager to host volunteers to read to and tutor children.
Whenever possible, choose a task that suits your talents. If you're performing tasks that you feel are important, your volunteering experience will be more fulfilling for you and more productive for the organization you are helping. Charitable organizations count on volunteers to fill nearly as many occupations as the private sector and it would be beneficial for all involved to match specialized skills of individuals to task. If you're a skilled Web site designer, you may not be fully utilized by cleaning out kennels at an animal shelter. If you're dangerous with hand tools, perhaps you should take more of a support role during the next Habitat for Humanity build.
Whatever your role, no matter the organization, consider volunteering your time to make a difference. You'll feel more connected to your community, meet new people and make a difference in a cause you care about.