Volunteer, Engage, Collaborate

I am currently reviewing post-secondary scholarship applications for the Nahom Berhane Scholarship. I review and grade applications submitted by students living in the GTA. Each applicant shares their story, which includes their role as a leader, as a community builder, and as a volunteer.

Most of the submissions are from 17–to 18-year-old students. And most of them have been actively volunteering since their elementary school days. Let that sink in.

I am not extremely concerned with the fate of Corporate Social Responsibility or community engagement when I notice that eleven-year-olds are weaving volunteerism into their life’s stories. The education system is doing a decent job of incorporating civic engagement into the curriculum and families seem to be effectively parlaying the importance of volunteerism to their young ones.

Instead, I want to remind the adult that dabbles in volunteerism, in part because a partner, friend, or colleague asks them to do so. The commitment to the cause extends as long as someone else leads the way. While it is a good start, consider taking it a step further, consider making a commitment to volunteering. It need not be with one organization for the rest of your life. That’s a tremendous commitment. Start by exploring what’s out there and start now.

Getting started:

Workplace Charity

Your workplace almost certainly has a charity of choice. This is an easy place to start. Find out the who, the what, and the why. If it speaks to you, offer to join the committee or offer your skills to a specific event during the workplace fundraiser. And then learn as much as you can about the charity and find out how you can get involved.

Choose a cause that speaks to you

You may already know that you would like to volunteer for a sports-based organization or a specific cultural organization. Perfect. Look it up. Google it. Check out websites like Volunteer Toronto, Charity Village, or City of Toronto. You will find a wealth of information on these websites. And who knows, your search might lead you to a new cause that speaks to you.

Social Media

Before I moved into my current neighbourhood, I went in search of engagement opportunities. I didn’t know anyone in the neighbourhood. I searched for opportunities via social media platforms and chanced upon a call for board members with Lakeshore Arts; an arts-based organization in my neighbourhood. Fast forward to today and I am completing my third year on the board.

And that’s how you get started, it’s that simple.

As someone who has worked in fundraising and community development, I recognize that today, almost everyone has a charity of choice. If that is the case, then I encourage you to start thinking about your role within that charity. From board members to special event volunteers, there is a place for you and your skills. Somewhere out there, a charity is searching for you and your skillset. Get started and if necessary, consult with an eleven-year-old, they may have a few recommendations.

Originally published at https://www.linkedin.com.