Volunteerism: Making a Difference

As school begins to dwindle down we begin to receive much more free time than what some of us are normally used to. We can be at a loss with what to do once this leisure comes into perspective. This ends up making us say often that we are bored because we just don’t know what do with so much time on our hands; it leaves our minds boggling with ideas but unable to focus on one. Instead of trying to plan something eventful or being confused about to what to do on these long days, you can now use your time to be helpful to others. You can do this very easily through many volunteer programs that have been established more and more throughout the years.

Volunteering allows you to use any of your skill sets (or gain some along the way) to help others in need. It also allows you to gain experience for free in whatever field you choose to volunteer in. So while putting yourself out there to improve others’ lives, you also are gaining assets to your resume as well. What better way to use your free time? 

Finding places to volunteer can be very simple, especially with the help of technology these days. There are ever-growing organizations, programs, and even clubs dedicated to their very own drives to help others in need or to even raise profits to make others’ lives better. You can find these places through surfing on the internet, checking your local town, and through William Paterson University, as well with clubs, such as The B.A.B.Y. Dolls and Habitat for Humanity. 

Check out some of these non-profit organizations that you can involve yourself in to help make a difference!

1. Clean Water Action NJ

An environmental organization determined to improve health, protect the ecosystem and community, and focus on important environmental concerns. This is an incredible organization focused on what they truly believe in, in order to provide the best they can for communities.

2. Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc. 

A non-profit organization moving fully through with their mission to save animals and find them homes through gifts, donations, fundraising events, and bequests. Furry friends need a voice to stand up for them all their own, and you can help be that.

3. Love146

An international human rights organization with an extremely strong and touching message to end exploitation and child trafficking. It has been voiced through many social networks building their strength to help these children in need.

No matter where you volunteer whether it is a local animal shelter or soup kitchen, Y.M.C.A or small organization, or even across the country through a program or club, every bit counts. Lending a helping hand to others in need is a feeling that you can gain no where else, and it’s absolutely priceless. So move out of your comfort zone if you need to. You’ll grow as a person and surprise yourself with what you can do while meeting amazing people along the way. Before you know it, your time will be filled with the need to put yourself out there and volunteer. 

Check out this site to find tons of volunteering opportunities! Good luck, collegiettes.

Photo credit to Pinterest.