October is Volunteer Awareness month
Curious about volunteering? Interested in connecting with your community? The volunteer fair on October 10 kicks off Volunteer Awareness month, designed to promote volunteerism and connect Concordians with local volunteer organizations.
“Our goal is to introduce Concordia students to volunteering as a way to develop leadership and interpersonal skills, network and gain valuable work experience,” says Marlene Gross, manager of Services for New Students and the Student Success Centre. “It is open to all members of the Concordia community including students, faculty and staff.”
Since 2005, there has been a steady increase in the fair’s attendance levels. Last year’s event attracted a record high of 750 visitors. “We hope to match that number this year,” says Gross.
Approximately 40 community groups will represent a wide range of objectives, such as promoting sustainability, advancing literacy, supporting health care, and fighting poverty. A variety of populations are served by these organizations, including youth, the elderly, women, and the homeless.
“There should be something of interest and value to everyone, whether they want to volunteer a few hours a year or a few hours each week,” adds Gross.
Valerie Millette, coordinator of the Leadership Initiative and Volunteer Engagement Centre (LIVE) says volunteering is a two-way street, with both the volunteer and the organization benefiting from the relationship. “Ask yourself what your priorities and values are,” suggests Millette, who advises students at the volunteer resource centre. “If you find a cause you are passionate about, you will be more motivated and get more from the experience. Then think about what you want to get out of it. It could be valuable for your career or help you achieve personal goals.” She often meets with students individually to help them match their interests to opportunities to develop transferable skills through volunteer activities.
Millette says the fair is an excellent place for students to browse, as they consider the volunteer work that may interest them.
“Some people know what organization they want to volunteer for,” she says. “Others are just exploring their options and learning about opportunities.”
The month includes workshops and volunteer events.
What: Launch your career, volunteer! workshop
When: Tuesday, October 16 from 2 to 4 p.m.
Where: Room H-440, Henry F. Hall Building (1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W.), Sir George Williams Campus
Learn how to advance your career prospects, develop transferable skills and benefit the community through volunteer work.
What: Strategic volunteering workshop
When: Tuesday, October 30 from 2 to 4 p.m.
Where: Room H-440, Henry F. Hall Building (1455 De Maisonneuve Blvd. W.), Sir George Williams Campus
Learn how to take volunteerism to the next level. Create your own volunteer projects and learn how to leverage your experience for your career.
While volunteer work may seem like a challenge to time-strapped students, Millette notes, “It is feasible for most students to volunteer. Some may not be able to spare a full day or even half a day per week, but most are able to give an hour or two if they prioritize their activities.” The LIVE Centre also offers group-volunteering events for students who want to get involved but can make only a one-time commitment.
Volunteers on the October 17 group visit to the NDG Food Depot will get a tour of the food bank and will help sort donations. Millette is also recruiting students for a group volunteering outing to Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore on October 25, which needs volunteers to help sort building materials and donations.
Students who prefer to have an individualized plan can meet with LIVE staff. “We are on campus all year long. If students don’t find what they’re looking for we have other opportunities all year,” Millette says.
Related links:
• LIVE Centre (including workshops)
• “Volunteering can help students gain invaluable experience” — NOW, May 17, 2012
• More fairs at Concordia
• Student Services