Tips on Volunteering

Be selective
Think about what matters to you, and choosing opportunities that make you feel good while helping others builds stronger communities, and enriches your own life at the same time.

Choose carefully
When you work with United Way of Southwest Alabama and our community partners, you can feel confident about the quality of the opportunity you choose and about the organization you donate your time to support.

Research causes that are important to you
Find out what cause is closest to your heart and make a difference.

Consider the skills you have to offer
Would you like to write an agency's newsletter? Or would you rather build a house? Find something you enjoy doing and enhance your skills through volunteering.

Learn something new
Volunteering can also teach you valuable new skills that you can use in other parts of your life. For example, learning how to handle crisis calls may help you communicate better.

Don't over-commit your schedule
Stick to a volunteering schedule that makes sense for you and leaves you time to enjoy the activity.

Consider volunteering as a family
Have some fun... and do some good! Today, families are finding new ways to spend time together—and volunteering is one way to do just that Group volunteering is a wonderful way to bond with your family or co-workers. Not only will you create lasting memories, but you will help someone in need.

Volunteering as a family

• Helps families learn about social issues
• Provides positive role models and passes on family values to children
• Provides quality time for the family to spend together
• Increases interpersonal communication and the problem-solving abilities of family members