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Extra-curricular question

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Extra-curricular question [#permalink] New post   04 Aug 2011, 19:36
Why do people -really- volunteer?

I have not done much volunteer work in US, but am planning to obtain membership of a non-profit and do non-profit volunteer work there. Is that the right approach to do extra-curricular work/volunteer work in USA?

I went to a meeting at a local non-profit that is a good fit with my profession with professionals contributing their expertise for various causes. I was wondering if I should be asking for a formal official position within the organization directly from the local org's president or do I only have to start as a volunteer? I am afraid that I'd end up spending huge amounts of time on this with no formal credential gained or even anything meaningful gained due to not knowing how it works.

What do experienced people here think...
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Re: Extra-curricular question [#permalink] New post   04 Aug 2011, 22:28
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Why do people really volunteer? A good question, and everybody has their own reasons, but for the most part I've found that most dedicated volunteers do so because they enjoy it. It's very simple it gives them fulfillment, maybe they get some respect and honor too. But it helps a lot if you like it.

As for your approach it's certainly a good start. It's probably a good idea though to volunteer in an an area that you are passionate about - be it literacy, environmental, pro bono legal work, etc. etc.

And as far as doing so for your MBA, there are basically two types of volunteer positions 1. regular volunteer 2. leader of volunteers. If you can, work your way up to number two :) (Which will be easier if you choose something you really like)
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Re: Extra-curricular question [#permalink] New post   05 Aug 2011, 01:06
thanks for your reply.

If a non-profit has a official titled leadership role but not enough volunteers, then they should be happy to assigned the role to a newcomer volunteer who shows interest, right? I do not see why a non-profit should have any problem with getting extra help at a cost of the newcomer a title.

Regarding such an approach, should one talk with the topmost person at the non-profit directly, or is it something that may be considered too forward in US? The non-profit is a good match for my profession and I 'd be happy to be doing it for nothing in return. However, I'd be super happy if my help could get official recognition.
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Re: Extra-curricular question [#permalink] New post   06 Aug 2011, 11:08
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Well, everything depends on where you go and what you want to do.
If you wanted to speak to the Director of Greenpeace or the Red Cross you might have a wee bit of trouble getting a meeting :)

But if it's a small non-profit I'm sure they would be very happy. And often in volunteer work, your only limitation is how much time and effort you are willing to dedicate yourself to it. So if you have a small non-profit and your goal is to transform it into a big one, and you believe in it, go for it! This is your chance not only to gain experience, but to do some good.
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Re: Extra-curricular question [#permalink]
06 Aug 2011, 11:08

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