Volunteerism during the Holidays and Beyond
In these hard economic times it is not unusual to hear that people are having tough times making ends meet. Perhaps even someone close to you is experiencing a hard time. If you’re feeling frustrated or saddened trying to find ways to help the people in your community, consider volunteering. Volunteering gives you an opportunity to change lives, including your own. Making a difference in someone else’s life will definitely help you improve yours. There is no greater gift than the gift of helping others!
Here are some helpful tools to make the best of your Volunteer experience:
Find what’s right for you! Pick what really interests you and who (or what) is most deserving of your time.
Find what fits your schedule! Local organizations like hospitals, shelters, or World Medical Relief agencies often like volunteers to give them a set amount of time every week or two.
Expand Your Mind! Volunteering is a great way to learn new skills. It gives you a chance to discover what kinds of things you’re best at and enjoy the most.
Feel Good! Donating your time is a great way to feel like you have the power to change things for the better.
There are several ways and places you can help. Search the internet or look in your local phone book under “Volunteer.” Call an organization directly and ask if they need volunteers in your area or ask friends or relatives for ideas and contacts to tell you about a job that’s a good fit for you.
For those interested in volunteering, please contact FANA of Great Lakes at 1-248- 939-1034.
Contributor: Belinda Hernandez, RN, BSN, MSA