Make a difference in your community. Is this the year for community involvement?
written by: dzenan berberovic
Dzenan Berberovic, M.A., CFRE
Avera Health
Even during a time when schedules seem to be packed with personal and professional commitments, many still look for volunteer opportunities to become more engaged in their community. In fact, employers are prioritizing community engagement for staff. Perhaps growing your involvement in your community is a New Year’s resolution.
Nonprofit organizations large and small count on volunteers to help ensure their vital missions are fulfilled – and volunteers bring vibrancy to institutions. Hospitals and health services organizations, zoos, schools, animal rescue facilities, senior service organizations, feeding ministries, housing organizations, social services causes fulfill their important – and often life-changing – missions because of dedicated volunteers and supporters.
I know stories of individuals who follow a set schedule by volunteering in a hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) as baby rockers. I have also seen how donating time to feeding organizations, or animal rescue organizations brings meaning to an individual’s life. It’s a privilege to see volunteers serve in board governance, or advisory board roles, because their professional acumen and passion help chart the course for the nonprofit.
If growing your community engagement is on your 2024 to-do list, here are easy ways to do so:
Create a list and determine what causes you are passionate about.
Decide how you wish to volunteer – as a board member or volunteer, alone, with another person, your family, or a group.
Verify your availability.
Determine the format of your volunteer service: in-person, virtual, hands-on with clients, frequency, as needed or on an ongoing basis.
Learn if these causes have volunteer openings by checking their website, emailing the volunteer services staff, or the executive director/CEO. You may also check the Helpline Center’s website for local volunteer opportunities. The Helpline Center does a great job maintaining a database of community service.
Conclude which option is best for you and begin your volunteer journey. Please know that some organizations may require a formal onboarding, background check and other key information, such as vaccinations.
Enjoy the journey ahead as you explore community service opportunities. I hope it leads to significant fulfilment and connection to a cause that you wish to support.
May the year ahead be filled with light and joy for you and yours. Happy New Year!
Dzenan Berberovic, M.A., CFRE leads Avera’s robust philanthropic and community engagement agenda as the health system’s chief philanthropy officer.
