So you've just been asked to volunteer for a non-profit - either to
help plan and run an event, to make sure certain office tasks get
done...or even the Holy Grail: membership on a board of directors for a
non-profit.
But you're hesitant to do so - after all, doesn't it take a lot of
time? (Time doesn't come cheap, and you're a busy person) It's
excessive work, and quite honestly, you have way too much work to do
already. Besides, let someone else handle it - after all, the most you
would be is keeping a chair warm...and quite honestly, anyone can do that.
Yet that attitude often leads to missing out on some great
opportunities. Volunteering for a non-profit, far from being a waste,
is actually a smart investment of time that leads to some excellent
benefits, including
- Networking - Most non-profit board members are leaders of
their community, ranging from business to technology, from teachers to
CEOS. Although it's easy to network on Facebook and Linked In, there's
nothing quite like good, old fashioned face-to-face networking.
Volunteering is a great way to build your professional references, as
well as meet a diverse group of people.
- Use Hidden Skills or Develop New Ones - Have you ever
secretly harbored a wish to become an event planner? Develop and learn
about policy issues outside of your corporation? Enjoy doing financial
work, and want to do so for a noble cause? Then volunteering on a board
is definitely for you - civic engagement can often lead to developing
new, hidden talents...and can allow you to gain an edge in your other
endeavors.
- Move Outside of Your Comfort Zone - Sometimes, board
involvement can lead you to find not only new professional
opportunities, but personal ones as well. For example, a St. Louis organization
began a "dinner roulette", featuring diners heading to various
restaurants. Not only did people develop new friendships, but also
learned about hip, new places. They moved out of their comfort
zone...and were able to make an impact on their city. Board membership
allows you to feel comfortably uncomfortable.
- Make a Difference - For many, their efforts often lead to
slightly intangible results, or results that might not be easily seen.
Volunteering often leads to seeing a direct, often measurable impact -
whether it is the number of people who see an artistic exhibit, or the
smile on a child's face. If you want to make the world a better place,
this is your chance to do so...one small step at a time.
Now, you're probably wondering...how do I go about volunteering? No
matter where you live, you can always check out the local United Way
for opportunities. In addition, in Chicago there is Networking for a Cause, which attempts to link interested individuals with board opportunities.
So, "get on board"...and get on a board! |