VOLUNTEERS: A VITAL FORCE IN OUR COMMUNITY

Canadians volunteer to support causes dear to their hearts. Some people volunteer because they now have time to do what they want to do, rather than what they have to do. Some volunteer to share their good fortune while others give their time in gratitude for what they have received.
The key to successful volunteering is to find an opportunity that will complement your lifestyle, suit your personality, and is of personal interest to you. As a first step to getting involved, ask yourself these questions:
What do I hope to achieve from the volunteer experience? Is your main goal to give back to the communinity or is it to say thank you for help you have received from a specific organization? What causes are close to my heart? Volunteers are often motivated by a desire to give back to the organizations that have helped them or someone they care about. What skills, experience or talents do I want to share? Have you raised a family? If so, you have organizational, teaching, money management, and people skills that can benefit a wide range of organizations. In what areas do I want to stretch myself? The desire to learn more about a specific cause or area, or to learn new skills, is also a powerful motivation for volunteers. How much time do I have to give? Deciding how much time you have or want to give is an important factor in helping you choose the right volunteer opportunity.
Volunteering today involves more than just stepping forward. Non-profit organizations take much care in matching volunteers to positions. This professional approach is intended to ensure a positive experience for all concerned. When you approach a non-profit organization as a prospective volunteer, you should expect to go through several steps. These may include: The Application Process.  Completing a formal application gives the organization useful information about you, your skills and experience, and your interests. The Interview. This is a two way street. You will be asked about yourself, your experience and your interests. You should ask questions about the position and its responsibilities. Screening. You can expect to be asked for references and to have those references checked. This will include a Criminal Records Check. Orientation and Training. This ensures that you have all the information and preparation you need to undertake your volunteer responsibilities.
Volunteering has little to do with being a "do-gooder". It is about...self esteem and freely sharing one's talent and wisdom; being valued, not paid; enhancing the community's quality of life. It is also about enjoying the process.
The women and men who volunteer at Bernadette McCann House are without exception, some of the most dedicated, thoughtful, fun, and committed individuals we have in the community, and we can't "Thank them Enough" for their ongoing support.
Bernadette McCann House provides critical services and support to women and their children, facing domestic violence. For more information please call 613-732-7776.

If you require immediate shelter or support, please call our 24 hour help lines at
1-800-267-4930 or 613-732-3131.

by Gwen Rutland- Staff