Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Volunteers Needed

In every community there are dozens of organizations needing volunteers. Most of these agencies and associations are providing important services and deserve help.

How do you choose the one for you?

Here are some ideas from Diane Jones, family consumer science specialist, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Arkansas.

If you have not done some self-evaluation before starting your search, you will know what causes you most want to support, what skills you have to offer and what types of things you would most like to have the chance to learn. So your initial screening of the many possible places to volunteer will be based on whether you will have the chance to do what matters most to you.

Once you have narrowed the number of prospective organizations down based on your own preferences, it is time to schedule some interviews. After all, you are planning to contribute many hours to your volunteer work, so you need to ask a few questions. The organization benefits all the more from your serious screening at the beginning.

Your next step is assessing the organization. You can expect several supportive things from any organization with which you might volunteer:

• A clear description of what they want you to do as a volunteer.
• Goals and objectives for each assignment, including manageable deadlines.
• Someone who is identified as your contact within the organization, so that you know where to go with your questions and concerns.
• An orientation, plus opportunities for training and for exposure to new experiences.
• Periodic, two-way feedback on how the work is going.
• Open acceptance of your thoughtful input, including suggestions and criticisms as well as a desire for your physical help.
• Honesty in explaining the amount of time and effort necessary to be successful.

It is your responsibility to consider the atmosphere of the work site. Is it friendly and active? Do you feel comfortable with the staff and other volunteers you have met during the process? Most importantly, will you have the chance to do what you truly want to do?

The Cooperative Extension Service provides many volunteer opportunities with youth and adult audiences. Volunteers work with county Extension faculty assigned to specific program areas. Training for volunteers is provided by the Extension faculty.

The 4-H program provides many volunteer experiences for people who love to work with children.

If you want to learn more about local opportunities to become a volunteer, call the Clark County Extension office at 246-2281.