Volunteering is good for networking

Volunteering and performing community service are both incredibly important in order to help those in need. But the volunteers themselves also see a benefit. Besides the intrinsic value of making a difference in the community, when you volunteer you also have a chance to network with others. Here’s how volunteering is good for networking:

• Friendships. Volunteering is a great way to get out into your community and meet people that you may not have met otherwise. This often leads to new friendships with people who have similar values and interests to you. After all, you did both choose the same volunteer opportunity. Maybe you meet your new best friend while volunteering or make some new friendly acquaintances in your neighborhood.
• Local groups and information. Volunteering is a great opportunity to network with people who have similar interests to you. These individuals may also help you get involved with local groups, like a reading or cycling club, or provide other helpful information about the area if you are new. This is a great way to get involved in different communities in your city, especially since figuring out where to start can be particularly hard.
• Mentoring. Volunteering is also good for networking because it can sometimes lead to you finding a mentor. A mentor is someone who can teach you new things and help you better yourself. A mentor has a positive impact on your life and that can start while you have a positive impact on the lives of others through volunteering.
• Potential jobs. Networking through volunteering can also help you get a new job. While volunteering, you talk to people and get to know them. Others in your community might be able to provide you with a job lead or even be interested in hiring you themselves. Sometimes people may have information on an opening that isn’t even listed yet.

Volunteering is a great way to help your community while helping you network with others in your area. One of the best ways to get involved with volunteering is to join a service club like Kiwanis in your community. Kiwanis club members look at the needs of children in their community and decide on the projects that will benefit local kids the most. By becoming a Kiwanis club member, you can act as a positive role model for children in your community and impact their lives.