Do Good. Live Well. United Healthcare

Becoming a volunteer: A quick guide to getting started

Thinking about volunteering? Whether you're new to volunteering, or are looking for tips and tools, you'll find ideas and stories here that are sure to inspire and inform. Use this guide to find one that matches your passion and interests.

• Some questions to ask before you begin your volunteer search.

  

  • What kind of volunteering would you like to do?

    You might want to begin your search with something that you're passionate about. Take a few moments to think about how you would like to volunteer. Do you like to be active or outdoors? Would you like to volunteer for kids or seniors? How about delivering or making meals? Perhaps you'd rather volunteer as part of a group? Knowing this can make your volunteering search easier.

  • What are your special skills or talents?

    An organization may value your computer skills, teaching experience, or bookkeeping expertise.

  • How much time do you have?

    It's important to consider how much time you have to give. You may have a few hours a week or one day a month. Maybe mornings are better than evenings.

  • Who do you know who already volunteers?

    Family and friends can be a great resource for ideas and information about volunteering. Ask them about their experience.

• 

  Find the organization that's right for you.

  Here are some ideas of organizations that may need your help:

  • Hospitals, libraries, churches, youth organizations, schools, museums or parks.

  The possibilities are endless. To help you find a volunteer opportunity that fits your interests and talents, visit

  VolunteerMatch.org
• 

  Volunteer Stories

  Every volunteer has a story to tell. Maybe someone was inspired to volunteer because of a personal experience regarding a loved one. Others volunteered because an organization valued their unique talents. Be inspired by real-life success stories from people who volunteer at VolunteerMatch.org

  See stories

• More ways to find your volunteer opportunity:

  Take a look at these ideas:

  • Research potential volunteer organizations online. Be sure to read the organization's mission statement to determine if it sounds like a place that's in step with your values.
  • Visit several different volunteer organizations. You may want to talk to the staff and volunteers to determine what feels right for you.
  • Consider online or virtual volunteering. If you have computer access, some organizations now offer the opportunity to volunteer over the computer. This may include proofreading documents or mentoring someone.

  Still not sure what volunteer opportunity is right for you? Find more volunteer opportunities at VolunteerMatch.org.