Beginning the search for the right volunteer position can be an exciting time! The right opportunity can provide you with a way to give back to the community, introduce you to like-minded individuals, and connect you with a cause you are passionate about. Those living in 55-plus communities near Denver, Colorado, will learn the city, and the community, is ripe with opportunity for volunteers of any age.
Curious where to begin your search for the perfect volunteer gig? Check out these steps for finding the position that aligns with your lifestyle and interests. With a little bit of patience and passion for compassion, you will find the right volunteer opportunity at your doorstep in no time.
Tip #1: Discover Your Volunteer Niche (Find Your Passion!)
One of the beautiful things about volunteering is the diversity in opportunity! Whether you love working with animals, elders, children, or the arts, there is an opportunity for you. The website known as VolunteerMatch has a powerful feature that allows you to search by “cause areas,” so you can filter the areas that interest you and are available in your area. These causes include human rights, faith-based, veterans, disaster relief, and so much more!
If you are unsure as to what area you would be most helpful in, reach out to organizations to learn more. You may find that something piques the interest that you have never considered before.
Tip #2: Determine Your Time Commitment
Being honest with your commitment level is a great way to narrow down the right volunteer opportunities for you. Most organizations will be grateful for volunteers at any level of commitment and will find duties that align with your time commitment preference. However, other organizations will require a certain time commitment for the volunteer opportunity at hand.
When choosing which organization to work for, asking about time commitments can help you narrow down your options. Organizations such as Aurora Volunteer Center ask potential volunteers directly how much time they would like to commit per volunteer day, and how frequently they would like to volunteer, making them a flexible place to volunteer with a variety of opportunities. (Not to mention their location, just moments away from OakwoodLife communities!)
See What Sticks: Volunteer Opportunities for 55 plus communities in Aurora, CO
While volunteers are always appreciated and a necessary part of many business models, it can take time to nail down the ideal opportunity. Because of this, it may be beneficial to apply for multiple volunteer opportunities that spark your interests, and see which one sticks! There is a world of organizations that can benefit from your time, compassion, and expertise. Remember that as you evaluate your options.
Additionally, it is important to remember that OakwoodLife’s 55 and over community is situated in an ideal location for incredible volunteer positions, whether your passions are with the Children’s Hospital Colorado (conveniently located in Aurora!) or Aurora Parks and Rec. Giving back to the community is an important part of turning a city into a home, so if your first opportunity does not pan out, don’t sweat it! The city is bursting at the seams with individuals who need individuals just like you.