Volunteering can be a challenge both physically and mentally, and if you want to volunteer you need to be prepared and interested in learning about a new culture. The qualities you should possess as a volunteer are open minded about new cltures and experiences, proactice, flexible and determined to work hard.
It is an activity that involves willingly spending time to help people, benefit a person, environment or community.
Volunteering is a great way for people, cultural background, regardless of their age, location or circumstances, to get involved in the community and make a positive contribution. It is also a great way to meet new people, and it is extremely beneficial & gives a sense of belonging and a connection to others. In addition to the satisfaction of helping out for the benefit of others, there are various reasons people volunteer such as:
Experiencing new challenges
Interacting with different cultures
Connecting with others and improving social ties.
Contributing to social change
Positively engaging and being active within the community
Developing professional networks
Exploring different career and job opportunities
Raising awareness and supporting important community issues
FInding a pathway to getting a job, course or training
Developing new skills or gaining experience in a variety of roles
While undertaking voluntary work many new skills can be learnt. It offers you the chance to try out a new career without making a long-term commitment. It can also help you build upon skills you already have and use them to benefit the greater community. It generates a tremendous sense of achievement and fulfillment when you feel that you have made a difference to somebody either large or small that ight be. Volunteering can provide a healthy boost to your self-confidence, self-esteem and life satisfaction.
The important benefit of volunteering is that it reduces the risk of depression as it keeps you in regular contact with others and helps you to develop a solid support system which can protect you aganist stress.
Skills you can gain and improve while volunteering
Leadership skills
Self-management
Teamwork & relationship skills
Learn to apply the skills you already have
Challenge yourself
Wherever you turn, you can find someone who needs you. Even if it is a little thing, do something for which there is no pay but the privilege of doing it. Remember, you don’t live in the world all of your own. - Albert Schweitzer
Ultimately, volunteering is a fantastic thing to undertake for so many different reasons. While learning new skills it can be beneficial to many, and it's a requirement for fulfilling volunteer experience. Bear in mind that the most valuable skills you can bring to any volunteer effort are compassion, an open mind, a willingness to do whatever is needed, and a positive attitude.