Ask Yourself These 10 Questions Before Volunteering at ANY Nonprofit
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There are a number of questions you should ask before volunteering regarding your fit with the organization and your about your overall motivation.
Let’s dig into it. . .
What Questions Should You Ask Before Volunteering?
There are important questions to ask before volunteering that you should consider. Here is a list:
1. What do I most want to learn from the experience?
Our number one advice to all prospective volunteers is that you must have a desire to learn in your volunteer role. If you’re thirsty for more education, developing new skills, learning new cultures — this is what will keep you going in downtimes. . . and believe us, there will be downtimes.
2. What are my volunteering goals?
To piggyback on the previous question, you must know what your goals are before heading into your role. Do you have personal goals? Has the organization given you goals to strive for? What are they?
We suggest writing them down. All goals are easier defined in writing and it will give you the added benefit of being able to see them every day and re-focus your energy.
Perhaps you want to raise X amount of dollars. Or learn a new language. Maybe you just want to meet new people — whatever it is that’s cast your desire to volunteer, write it down!
3. How much time can I commit?
This is always hugely important when talking about beginning a volunteer role. It is better for your personal well-being, the organization’s scheduling, and the entire team’s comradery if you own up to your own personal limits before committing to anything.
Whether it be a few hours a week or one day a month — set your limit and be open about it with your prospective organization.
