Volunteer Work: How Giving Back Can Benefit Your Future
Learn about the advantages of volunteering and how to get started
Many youth in Ontario may have volunteered in high school to obtain their mandated graduation hours. However, volunteering can be more than just fulfilling a requirement. It is about helping others and can also serve as a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. Engaging in community service can develop essential skills such as leadership, teamwork, and time management, which are highly valued by employers. Volunteering offers unique networking opportunities, allowing individuals to connect with like-minded peers and professionals in their field of interest. Discover more about how volunteering can contribute to your future success.
Personal Advantages
Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment. By contributing to meaningful causes, individuals can experience profound personal growth and a sense of achievement. Moreover, these experiences often enhance emotional well-being, reduce stress, and increase happiness through acts of kindness and community engagement.
“Volunteering has helped me network, make new friends, and personally grow,” says Adam Tans, an engineering student in Toronto. “I volunteer for an organization that helps pack and deliver meals to the elderly. It has given me a sense of satisfaction, and I truly enjoy helping out my community,” he adds.
To explore volunteer opportunities and find causes that resonate with you, Volunteer Toronto offers a hub of volunteer positions within the Toronto area. Additionally, the Ontario Volunteer Centre Network (OVCN) connects individuals to various opportunities across Ontario, ensuring you find the right fit for your interests and schedule.
Professional Advantages
From a career perspective, volunteering is an excellent way to gain practical experience and enhance your resume, making you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. Many volunteer roles require transferable skills such as project management, communication, and problem-solving. For instance, organizing a fundraising event or leading a community project can showcase your leadership abilities and sense of initiative to potential employers. Volunteering also provides valuable networking opportunities that may lead to future employment.
“Prior to graduating, I didn’t have much outside work experience,” Tans explains. “When it came time to apply for jobs, I was able to discuss my volunteer experience and demonstrate leadership in my position. The hiring managers were impressed during my interview, which helped me secure my first role.”
To find volunteer roles that enhance your professional skills, visit CharityVillage for a comprehensive list of opportunities ideal for gaining professional experience. Volunteer Canada also offers a wide range of resources and tools to help you get started with volunteering across the country.
Many individuals successfully balance volunteering with their professional and personal lives. Managing your time, prioritizing tasks, and setting clear boundaries can help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Getting Started
To get started with volunteering, you can also explore the resources provided by the Government of Ontario, which offers information on various volunteer opportunities within the province. The resources will help you match your interests and skills to the right opportunities so that you can make a meaningful impact through your volunteer work.
Volunteering offers both personal fulfillment and professional development. By giving back to the community, young people can build valuable skills, expand their networks, and pave the way for future success. Engaging in volunteer work today can significantly shape your tomorrow.
About the author
Gabby Altman is a contributing reporter at Youth Mind. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her travelling the world, trying new food and hanging out with her puppy named Mochi.