Would you like to make a substantial difference in the lives of others?

If given the chance you would certainly change the world. Or if not the whole world, at least a small part of it?

While the world might not want to be changed, volunteering is one way you are able to have a positive effect on someone’s life and contribute to the community at large. Being a volunteer provides you with an opportunity to give back, and challenge yourself in new ways. Volunteering experiences can range from exotic overseas adventures to working with local groups in your own community, and the work itself can be as varied as community development, education programs, environmental work or social welfare. By volunteering, you also have the chance to build your resume. Volunteerism shows prospective employers your level of dedication, flexibility and reliability. Furthermore, by volunteering in your own field of study you can gain valuable hands on experience.

Now, before you go running off and become the next crew member of an extremist environmental fleet headed for a one way trip to Antarctica, there are a number of things you should consider.

 
To ensure you get the most from your chosen volunteering program take time to reflect on why you would like to volunteer:

While there is not just one “correct” reason to volunteer, answering these questions can help you decide what sort of organisation you would like to volunteer with.

When choosing a specific organisation or agency to volunteer with a plethora of choices are available. The values and goals that drive these groups can vary greatly. So it is essential to do a bit of homework before making a commitment. This is especially true if your volunteering adventure requires you to pay for airfares and raise money so you can financially support yourself, as with many international volunteering schemes. Selection should be based on matching the organisation’s ideals and vision to your own.

A good place to start is by checking out the website of volunteer organisations. Websites can provide information including the organisation’s mission statement, contact details, current projects being run, testimonies from other volunteers/ alumni and the process for making applications.

If you are looking for volunteer work specific to paramedicine each state has volunteering programs for community based first responders. Typically these programs require members of the community being dispatched, along with paramedics, to perform basic life support. Volunteers are expected to take part in regular training to ensure maintenance of these skills. For further information please contact your state paramedic services.

For information on a variety of volunteering opportunities in your local community visit www.govolunteer.com.au.

The Power of Volunteering

The following video talks about the ways volunteering can help your community and improve lives, including your own. It offers advice on overcoming barriers to volunteering and some tips on finding the volunteering program that is right for you!