volunteer

=Why do people volunteer? = They have an interest in something particular.

They want to try out a possible career path. They want to make new friends.

They want to help their community.

Did you know that volunteering can make you healthier, happier and live longer? Find out more great facts about volunteering at [|Volunteering America].

Whatever the reason, volunteering is a great way to gain experience you can use when you apply for college or when you're looking for a paying job. When you volunteer, you show people you are willing to work hard for something you believe in. You show people you take initiative. You show people you care.

Check out these links for more information about becoming a volunteer:

[|College Board and Volunteer Opportunities] This site is sponsored by the College Board association and has good advice for starting to volunteer.
 * Read Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Volunteer!**

[|Do Something.org] You can search for opportunities by your zip code. Read about other people's experiences and chat with other volunteers.
 * A must read!**

[|Servenet.org] This site helps you find opportunities in your area. Search by zip code.

[|USA Freedom Corps] This website allows you to search by volunteer opportunities in a variety of work areas and states, from the USA Freedom Corps.

Other options
Ask at your school. Many schools have a list of volunteer opportunities with the Guidance Counselor.

Do you belong to a church? Churches usually have lots of places to volunteer.

Ask at your local library.

Check with local nursing homes or hospitals. There are many opportunities for volunteering here!

If you're old enough to drive, contact Meals on Wheels. If you're free in the summer, or even if you're homeschooled, this would be a great volunteering opportunity.

**Share your experience **
Tell us what you're doing. Click here to add your experience to the TeenThing wiki.

Now that you've thought about it here are some other ways to get involved:
Advocate Join a group