Make an Impact on Government by Volunteering

Volunteering truly helps the bottom line of many organizations. However, volunteering is much more than making an appearance and putting in a few hours of work, especially when it comes to volunteering for community organizations and political campaigns.
 
If you have a passion for making a difference, becoming involved in government issues at local and federal levels is a wonderful way to show your support. Not only will your volunteering benefit the politician or organization, it will also benefit you and give you a well-deserved sense of satisfaction.

 
As a plus, you don't have to bring any special skills or knowledge to the table to volunteer. Sometimes volunteers lend a helping hand by simply answering phones or handing out fliers. Also, don't think you have to have a lot of free time to volunteer. Some people make a huge difference in government by simply volunteering for a few hours on the weekends.

The Importance of Volunteering

In the government arena, you'll find plenty of opportunities to provide time and service. Whether it's at the local, state or national level, campaigns, committees and organizations need your spirit and your skills.
 
Often, organizations don't have the necessary funds to perform such basic tasks as posting signs or staffing fund raising events. As a volunteer, you provide the manpower to keep a campaign rolling.

Choosing the Right Volunteering Opportunity

When trying to find the right volunteering opportunity, consider your interests and the issues that concern you. If you're passionate about your volunteer work, you'll certainly be more eager to do a great job.

When applying for a volunteer job, consider the following and discuss them with a representative from the organization:

  • Business and Personal Skills: You may be outgoing and ready to take on the world by greeting and operating polling booths or registration tables. If you have marketing skills, you can offer to write press releases and brochure copy.

    On the other hand, you might prefer less public contact. If so, you could help out with computer work. From graphic designers to those with legal expertise, there is always a need.

  • Leadership Skills: If you're known for taking charge, offer to provide your services to coordinate volunteer activities. Other areas of leadership might involve setting up door-to-door campaigns, organizing events and overseeing telephone and e-mail marketing campaigns.

  • Persuasive Personality: Persuasive personalities are essential for raising funds from supporters. If you have an outgoing personality and good sales skills, you might be interested in helping with fundraising.

  • Time Commitment: Be honest about the time you have to commit to volunteering opportunities. Organizations will appreciate even an hour or two on weekends. Let them know when you might be available for more time-consuming tasks, too.

Interviewing for a Volunteer Job

When applying for a volunteer job, don't be surprised if you're asked to submit a resume and appear for an interview. Even as an unpaid volunteer, you'll be part of a team. An interview is a standard way to find out more about your personality. It also gives the agency or organization a good idea of where your skills can best be used.

In turn, you can also ask questions and may wish to do so before you begin the application process. Don't hesitate to ask about:
  • levels of responsibility
  • number of other volunteers
  • organization goals
  • supervisor contact
  • target audience.

Finding Volunteering Opportunities

You won't have to go far to find volunteering opportunities. During the months before federal elections, you'll see campaign headquarters in any city or town. You can also search the Internet if you want to support a specific candidate or issue.

At home, you can volunteer in other ways, too. Many cities provide information on their Web sites about council and committee openings for citizen involvement. These are volunteer positions that provide much-needed input in government processes.

Involving Youths and Teens in Political Endeavors
Individuals who are not yet of voting age can certainly provide valuable services.

Teen volunteering is welcome in many organizations. The energy and enthusiasm of youths who believe in a cause are often refreshing boosts. As a plus, volunteering often helps establish a sense of responsibility in teens and allows them to see firsthand how individuals can have an influence within a community and on a larger scale.

If teens want to become involved, they can volunteer for local politicians or fundraising organizations during summer breaks or over weekends. Teen volunteering could even open up the possibility of an internship.

The Benefits of Volunteering

The benefits of volunteering go far beyond the impact you'll have on a community or a campaign. By volunteering people often gain:
  • a sense of community involvement
  • a sense of fulfillment and pride
  • a sense of value and worth
  • networking contacts and friends
  • new skills
  • self-esteem and self-confidence
  • valuable work experience.
Resources
 
Fec.gov (n.d.). Volunteer Activity. Retrieved July 22, 2007, from the Federal Election Commission Web site: http://www.fec.gov/pages/brochures/volact.shtml.
 
Girlistic.com (2006). How to Volunteer. Retrieved July 22, 2007, from the Girlistic Web site: http://girlistic.com/diy/volunteer.htm.
 
Politicalgrassroots.org (2001). Political Participation Ideas. Retrieved July 22, 2007, from the Political Grassroots Web site: http://www.politicalgrassroots.org/participation.html.