Assume you found a company you would like to volunteer for but you don't know much about the position or company. What could be some questions you might ask to get more information?
What volunteer work will I be doing? What is the required time of the commitment? Who will be my supervisor? Do you provide references for volunteers?
Do you think you should put your volunteer experience on your resume?
Typically, yes. It's an excellent way to show your experience and help you gain an advantage, especially if you've never had a job before.
How would you find volunteer work?
Friends and family. Volunteer centers. Schools/education institutions. Websites. Choose a passion or hobby of yours and find non-profit organizations.
Opinion: Would you like to volunteer with other people or by yourself?
Answers will vary.
Name a volunteer role that could help seniors.
-Visit residents at a seniors home -Water plants at a seniors home -Use your skills such as playing music in a seniors home -Cut grass for an older neighbour
Name 3 reasons why someone would volunteer.
Meet people, learn new skills, and give back to the community.
How would you express your satisfaction with the volunteer position?
Tell your supervisor how much you love the position. Write a thank you card. Go into your shift with a positive attitude. Leave them a positive review.
What would you do if you were unhappy with your volunteer position?
If you're unhappy with your position, talk to your supervisor about your concerns. If things don't improve, it's okay to find a different volunteer opportunity.
How much time can YOU realistically commit to a volunteer position and when?
Answers will vary
Can volunteering help provide you with future references?
Yes. By being a dedicated and effective volunteer, you can get a new reference. You can use this reference to apply for a paid job or a post-secondary program.
What is an orientation session? What would you expect during an orientation session?
An orientation is a welcome meeting for a new place or activity. You'll learn key info, get a tour, and an overview of what to expect.
Why might you have to sign a confidentiality statement? What does it mean to maintain confidentiality?
Confidentiality statements protect private info. Confidentiality means not sharing others' personal details, like addresses.
Why do some organizations require a police check?
For safety! Police checks show you have no criminal record. Often required for roles with vulnerable populations, such as kids or seniors.
How do you feel about volunteering outdoors with some light physical work?
Answers will vary. What works well for one volunteer may not work for another. It is important to feel comfortable and enjoy your volunteer situation.
What should you do if you don’t understand your volunteer tasks?
Ask your supervisor for clarification. It’s better to ask than to guess!
Why might some volunteers wear uniforms or name tags?
Uniforms or name tags show professionalism, help identify volunteers, and make it easier for people to ask for help.
