Volunteering

There is a number of ways of becoming involved in Volunteering.

Contact Leitrim Development Company (071 96 41740) for a booklet on volunteering opportunities in Leitrim or have a look at their website www.volunteerinleitrim.ie to find out more.   Otherwise you can have a look at the websites below to look for volunteering opportunities both locally and nationally.  Agencies who are looking for volunteers are often looking for a variety of different people with a range of skills and experience – from electricians to administration staff, from fundraisers to painters!

Irish Based Agencies

  1. Volunteering Ireland – Lists voluntary work opportunities in Ireland and agencies both nationally and internationally.
  2. Volunteer Sligo – Can help you find a volunteer position or give you advice on the how, what and where of volunteering in general.
  3. Volunteer Centre Ireland is responsible for developing volunteering in Ireland.
  4. Irish Aid Centre provides information on all forms of volunteering opportunities available to anyone who wants to get involved.

Voluntary Work Abroad

  1. Action without Borders has a database of international volunteer opportunities as well as links to other organisations promoting global volunteering.
  2. Community Service Volunteers is a UK charity with a range of volunteering opportunities in areas such as the media and the environment.
  3. Global Volunteer Network places volunteers in community projects worldwide.
  4. Oneworld co-ordinates many NGO job vacancies (Oxfam, Christian Aid, Caritas etc).
  5. Volunteers for Peace is a US based organisation. Contains links to other voluntary organisations world-wide including Ireland.
  6. VSO International development charity that works through volunteers to fight poverty in developing countries.
  7. Working Abroad.com provides information on volunteer opportunities in over 150 countries worldwide.

Benefits of volunteering include:

  • Exploring your career and personal interests
  • Earning great recommendations for future employment or college applications
  • Developing marketable job skills
  • Building your CV
  • Enriching your education
  • Uncovering hidden skills and talents
  • Increasing your self-confidence
  • Making new friends
  • Having fun
  • Making a difference