Volunteering

Volunteering or voluntary work means any kind of unpaid work or activity done for other people. A 2005 Oireachtas Committee reported that volunteers contributed up to €480 million worth of time to the non-profit sector in Ireland. Volunteering can mean anything from helping to fill envelopes to undertaking overseas development work.

If you have time and feel like getting involved with something, then some volunteering can do you a lot of good. International research has found that volunteer work can help us to live longer, stay well and enjoy life more. Getting involved in voluntary work:

• gives satisfaction,
• increases our self-worth,
• provides continued learning,
• helps us to make a difference,
• broadens our horizons.

Research suggests that what is most beneficial to the volunteer is moderate amounts of volunteer work for just one organisation.

Remember that voluntary work can means any kind of unpaid work or activity. It can be formal, such as becoming part of an organisation for an agreed number of hours a week, or informal, such as shopping for a neighbour who is finding it hard to get around.

When considering voluntary work, it's a good idea to put a shape on what you might do. What do you enjoy doing? Are you best working on your own, or as part of a team? Do you prefer staying in the background or like to be out there meeting people? How much time do you want to give? A day a week? A few hours a month? Don't over commit yourself at the start - you can always expand.

How do you know if the work will suit you? Talk to the person or organisation you wish to volunteer with and ask for a description of the work involved. Does it appeal to you? Do you need training?

Volunteering Ireland's website has both a list of Volunteer Centres that operate in Ireland, as well as a list of organisations that provide international volunteering opportunities.