United Way Organizational Guide

In 1972, when Living Free—the sequel to the influential, Oscar-winning 1966 movie Born Free—was released, more than 200,000 lions roamed the African continent. Between feline tuberculosis, poaching, and diminishing habitat, that number today has dwindled to fewer than 15,000. If something isn’t done soon, this icon of Africa could well be extinct. That’s why Amanzi Travel, a British-based travel company, offers volunteers the chance to work with, and hopefully save the “king of beasts.”

73% of employers would recruit a candidate with volunteering experience over one without and 94% of believe that volunteering can add to skills. 94% of employees who volunteered to learn new skills had benefited either by getting their first job, improving their salary, or being promoted. Also, if you are thinking of a career change then volunteering is a perfect way to explore new fields. If you have a passion for the arts but have career in computing then why not volunteer at your local theatre- the ideal way to expand your work portfolio in your field and to gain a real insight into your chosen path.

Whether planting flowers at a local park or spending time with people with disabilities, for busy parents who want to spend time with their kids while still contributing to their community, volunteering as a family is an ideal activity. The benefits are enormous. Volunteering teaches even toddlers and preschoolers about compassion, empathy, tolerance, gratitude, and community responsibility. And children who volunteer are more likely to continue doing so as adults.

Life may seem tough when you don’t have your iPhone or can’t afford to grab your morning Starbucks, but when you see firsthand how real families live without heat, electricity, or indoor plumbing, you’ll feel better about your current situation.

The United States National Park Service was established in 1916 to care for the country’s 392 national parks. A volunteer position with the National Park Service entails a number of possibilities because the service is as diversified as the areas it protects. Nature lovers can expect quality time outdoors and the chance to improve conditions for the public, such as providing maintenance for a hiking trail. The National Park Services is one of the top great places to volunteer for fitness and outdoorsy types.