Volunteering your time is a great way to support nonprofits you care about, even when donating money to them isn’t in your budget. These days, though, time is money, so we understand if you need some incentives to do so. Our volunteers know that there are many benefits to volunteer work, which is why some of them have been with us for over 30 years!
Below are a few reasons why you should consider volunteering for a nonprofit if you don’t already. We hope this list inspires you to get more involved in your community!
1. Volunteering Looks Great on a Resume
Greater competition and more stringent hiring practices make today’s job market more challenging than it used to be, and applicants need to stand out. Adding volunteer work to your resume is a great way to show hiring managers that you’re well-rounded, and it could also speak to your work ethic. It can even help you gain experience in the field you want to work in – many nonprofits seek volunteers for marketing, fundraising, and administrative work!
In Benton County, you can gain volunteer experience supporting people with recreational activities through The Arc Achievement Program (TAAP). If you want to help out at fun classes for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), contact Hayden, TAAP Coordinator, for more info. If you’re more interested in volunteering at our thrift stores, reach out to Jill, Thrift Stores Volunteer Coordinator.
2. You Could Get College Credit
Did you know that some schools offer college credit for volunteering? You can substitute a class with hands-on experience through certain programs at universities – including local ones! Linn-Benton Community College has a Cooperative Work Experience program for students who find opportunities related to their major. Through LBCC, you might also be able to volunteer as part of a practicum, both of which can earn you credit. If you go to OSU, you could work with a nonprofit to turn a volunteer position into an internship, as long as it meets the college’s requirements. College students who want to volunteer should check with their school to see what options are available.
The Arc sometimes offers internships, and we’re happy to work with students to ensure they get proper credit for them. We encourage you to reach out if you’re looking for experience with adults with disabilities!
3. Volunteering is a Networking Opportunity
Although not every volunteer role leads to a paid position, the networking that volunteering provides can lead to valuable connections. Through a nonprofit, you’ll meet new people who can open doors to paid opportunities. Get to know the other volunteers and community partners at the nonprofit. They (or their employers) might be looking to hire someone just like you!
When you’re volunteering at The Arc, we invite you to join us at events in the community. Our program participants would love to see you at annual meetings, the Polar Plunge, or our dances at C3. We can also tell you about other opportunities to get involved in our community, where you can network with even more people.
Volunteers aren’t just good to have – they’re vital. Without them, important programs can’t fulfill their missions. If you’re looking to give back to our community, consider committing some time to a cause you care about. The Arc frequently has opportunities to support our thrift stores, as well as adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Contact us today to get involved!