Being unable to travel does not mean you can not volunteer. Many charities can use your help even if you can not leave your home.
Everyday we see various causes that need more volunteer efforts from our communities. Some people want to help, but are unable to commit to leaving their homes/offices for a set amount of time. For example, a person recovering from surgery may want to offer charities assistance, but they can not physically tax themselves during their recuperation.
Volunteering from home may help those with charitable hearts but inconvenient schedules.
Step One – What charitable causes motivate you to forgo personal pursuits and sacrifice time for the cause’s behalf?
Consider the wide range of possible aid organizations that require unpaid assistance. Your can choose from environment groups, child welfare, animal welfare, religious groups, etc. Which area of charitable work makes you feel inspired to labour?
Brain storm what you can offer these types of groups. For example, many child welfare groups welcome kid sized hand knit scarves and warm winter gear for impoverished families. Some human rights organizations ask that people write letters in an attempt to pressure governments. Other aid groups welcome home made cookies and snacks.
Step Two - Investigate
Once you have a direction that inspires you to volunteer and you have decided what you can offer, start to investigate the actual charities that work in your favorite area.
When you have narrowed your potential associations to a few, scrutinize these aid organizations. You want to ensure that you spent your time assisting honourable groups. Spend some time examining the charitable organization laws and requirements that your government has created. Does your government have a watch list for groups that have violated these laws?
Step Three – Make Contact
This research will narrow your targets to one or two institutions. Pick your favorite and either call or write their volunteer coordinator. Explain that you wish to volunteer your time from your home and explain the service(s) you are offering.
Step Four – Gather Details
Once you have an agency which accepts your proposal in principal, go over the details with the agency representative. For instance, if you have agreed to knit ten hats for children you will need to know who purchases the yarn. If you purchase the yarn, will the agency give you a letter stating your intentions so you can negotiate with supplies for a discount? What sized of hats are required? Do the children have favorite colours or cultural barriers to certain styles or shades?
Jot down notes during this conversation so you will know exactly what the aid organization requires from you. There is no value to spending your time on unnecessary projects when work is urgently required elsewhere.
Finally, enjoy your time serving your community!
