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Practical AssistanceSome organizations need DIY or building volunteers to paint and decorate, carry out repairs or put up shelves. This can be for the organization itself or with its client base. Volunteers can: Befriending Befriending involves giving support and friendship to someone who may be going through a difficult period, is feeling lonely, or is adjusting to a major change in their life. Volunteer befrienders are matched with a client (perhaps because they share an interest or are of a similar age). They meet on a regular basis, perhaps to go shopping, go to the cinema or simply to have a chat over a cup of coffee. Befriending may aim to encourage the client’s independence, build their self-confidence or offer social contact beyond their immediate family. Befrienders are carefully selected and trained and receive ongoing support.
Many people are particularly interested in volunteering with people with a physical disability to assist them lead a more active or independent life. Volunteers can:
HIV/Aids and Drug Dependency Many people choose to volunteer with people directly or indirectly affected by HIV/AIDS or drug dependency issues. Volunteers can:
Many elder people or people with a disability are unable to leave their homes due to a lack of suitable transport. Volunteer drivers provide a vital service helping them to get out and about, perhaps to a day center or social club. Some organisations have their own vehicles whilst others need drivers with their own car. Perhaps the best-known volunteer drivers are the ’Meals on Wheels’ fleet. The insurance requirements of organizations may differ, but usually a volunteer has to be aged over 23 years and have a clean driving license. Minibus drivers may be required to sit a test. Volunteers using their own car will normally be paid petrol expenses.
There are a wide variety of volunteering roles with children. Volunteers can: Individuals who volunteer with children or vulnerable adults should expect to undergo Garda Vetting.
Many hospitals and residential care units involve volunteers in a variety of roles. Volunteers can:
II.Residential You may wish to get involved in voluntary work on a residential basis. This will involve a period of ‘live in’ with the organization. Residential volunteering opportunities can last from one week to several months or more. Your local Volunteer Centre will be able to advise you on organizations that offer residential opportunities Volunteers can:
Team Volunteering Groups of friends or colleagues can get together for a one-off volunteering project e.g. painting a mural, creating a wildlife garden, decorating premises or organizing an outing for a group of people. Your local Volunteer Centre will be able to let you know of available projects. Volunteer work can be a very rewarding experience. Getting children involved in volunteering teaches them about compassion and can help build self-confidence. Retirees can volunteer in order to keep active and experience a rewarding endeavor.
Nursing Homes Volunteering at nursing homes not only helps the volunteer with psychological and emotional needs but has added benefit for the residents of the home. Volunteers can help with hair styling, games or just visit. These activities are beneficial for the residents of the home who might otherwise only rarely have visitors. Early Childhood Preschools and Head Start centers often need volunteers. Volunteers assist the teacher with meals, snacks, game time, learning and reading during story time. Both adults and teenagers can enjoy this type of volunteer job. Hospitals In hospitals, volunteers may help with visits with the patients and delivering newspapers and gifts. Volunteers also spend quality time with patients to make their hospital stays a little easier. Libraries Adults and children alike can volunteer at public libraries. Volunteers often participate in story time for small children. Some libraries will also have volunteers help with book returns and displays.
Conclusion Volunteering gives a sense of purpose to all involved. Not only can a person help their community but they can also help themselves. Benefits include building self-confidence and self-worth, improving communication skills and encouraging social development.
Date: 2015-12-24; view: 851
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