Volunteering has become a flexible and fulfilling option to get involved in your community because of the many great available options. Many students in MCPS whose schedules have been packed with many extracurriculars may find it difficult to find time to volunteer. Despite this, volunteering has a flexible schedule and is extremely rewarding. Volunteering benefits others in need, important causes, and the community, but the rewards to you, the volunteer, can be even bigger.
One of the best parts of volunteering is that it requires no long-term commitment, or a long period of time while still allowing you to give back to others. Impacting your community is one of the most fulfilling benefits of volunteering. Volunteering can help you improve and connect to your community. Even the smallest of volunteer work can make a significant difference in the lives of people, animals, and organizations in need. Students can build new relationships and build social skills. Helping others can help you build your self-confidence, keep you mentally active, and give your life a little more passion. Lastly, volunteering can give you career experience and valuable job skills, such as public speaking, marketing skills, and communication.
There are many opportunities right here in MCPS that you may be interested in. The Montgomery County Volunteer Center offers many great opportunities to people of all ages and those looking for SSL hours. There are opportunities ranging from food delivery to helping at your local carnival.
In addition, there are also advocacy-related volunteering opportunities where volunteers can connect with nonprofits in need. There are activities such as tutoring or mentoring, web design, marketing, and much more. Visit their website and see which ones interest you. Students also may be interested in the volunteering program students4lynne where you can get SSL hours and work with Board of Education Member Lynne Harris. Visit their Instagram page to see how you can get involved.
Since you’re contributing your time, it’s key that you enjoy and learn from your volunteer work. Ask questions to ensure that your volunteer work is a suitable match. You want to keep in mind that the experience should be a good fit for your abilities and goals. The right volunteering opportunity can help you better connect with your community, make new friends, learn new skills, and experience new things you’ve never tried before.
Article by Kayla Thomas of Seneca Valley High School
Photo courtesy of Unsplash