Kyle Bernstein

Let’s clear the air right off the bat and acknowledge that we really do care about the ozone layer and the baby seals and the starving children in Africa.  Every December, we write checks to provide seeing eye dogs for the blind, food for the homeless, and funds to research cures for diseases. These actions may make us responsible citizens but, really, other than alleviating the guilt that comes from being middle class, the overall impact of those acts would probably be considered very low.

Although we all have dreams and aspirations, most of us were not blessed (or cursed, depending on your point of view) to have a calling to devote our entire life to a noble, selfless cause.  However, if you leave your home on a regular basis and interact with an average number of other humans from time to time, opportunities to do good will present themselves.  Frequently, others will engage you to use your talents, real or perceived, to benefit others.  Your motives may be pure like those who volunteered to assist, clothe and feed rescue workers at Ground Zero or in Louisiana after Hurricane Katrina. Or you could join in an event to rub elbows with big wigs in your industry in hopes to pass along a resume.  Regardless of why you sign on, do what you’re asked and focus on the cause.  Many times, you will meet people who become your friends.  Often, you will acquire a skill or develop a talent you weren’t even aware that you possess.  Always, you will encounter like-mined individuals in varying degrees of involvement, working together toward a common goal, whatever their motives are.  There are numerous organizations seeking volunteers on a regular basis such as Volunteers of America, a faith-based non-for-profit, (www.voa.com), Volunteer Benevoles Canada, which employs a community-driven approach (http://volunteer.ca), and The Red Cross (www.redcross.org and www.redcross.ca).  Additionally, many professional associations have a favorite charitable organization they partner with, which will also afford you the chance to stand side by side with people in your own industry, for potential networking capabilities.  In fact, many charities partner with industry-specific organizations to allow members to use their special talents to benefit others.  Many professionals enjoy sharing their experience with young adults through mentoring programs.  We often acquire skills at our jobs that improve the more we use them.  Volunteering to teach your trade to others can help you hone your presentation techniques or help you conquer a fear of public speaking.

Of course, the best way to find volunteer opportunities is to be open to them.  Keep your eyes and ears open around your workplace, neighborhood, and community.  Charity certainly begins at home and you’re more likely to continue participation if it’s convenient for you and you enjoy it.  Get involved in charities supported by your church, temple, or place of worship.  Check your local newspaper and ask around.  Through volunteering, you’ll meet others who can steer you toward other situations from ushering at summer festivals to reading stories at your local library.  Don’t be afraid to flaunt your special talents by offering to, say, make cookies to a bake sale.  Whatever your motives, you’ll find personal satisfaction from helping others and feel better knowing you’re helping to make a difference.