What is hidden underneath the public view of volunteering?

In general, there is a perception in society that individuals who volunteer are rare benefactors among us. Benefactors may be rare, but what else lies hidden behind these curtains? If we disregard this surface perception, we will come to realize that volunteering can have a significantly greater impact on both our personal growth and development.

What also intrigues me is our distorted perception of volunteering. How many of you, upon reading the word “volunteering,” immediately associate it with activities such as working at a soup kitchen or assisting the Red Cross? There is nothing inherently wrong with such associations; in fact, it is fascinating to observe that these are the boundaries of our collective opinions. I, too, initially held a similar perspective, which is precisely why I am writing this blog.

So, let us explore what else lies concealed within the realm of volunteering.

New experiences and skills

When discussing work and employment opportunities, we often find ourselves trapped in the same cycle: “No job without experience, no experience without work.” In this vortex, we struggle, and to put it poetically, only the strongest endure. We are all acquainted with this situation, which is one of the major challenges faced by young people in finding employment. Realizing that we cannot overhaul the system within a short timeframe, we must contemplate how we can transform ourselves.

Volunteering can genuinely assist us in this endeavor.

I am nearly certain that each individual can discover volunteer opportunities within their local community due to the shortage of volunteers. Let’s take the Liberato association as an example, where volunteers engage in tasks that align with their interests. Consequently, we have an exceptional team of volunteers who assist us in programming and maintaining systems, another group that prepares and conducts lectures, and a third enthusiastic group dedicated to mapping locations in new cities.

Engaging in volunteering, regardless of its form, presents an excellent opportunity to broaden our horizons, acquire new experiences, and develop new skills. Each time we face novel challenges and embark on projects outside our comfort zone, we grow as individuals. It allows us to cultivate organizational and communication skills, appreciate the benefits of teamwork, and acquire an array of valuable proficiencies highly sought after in the job market.

Furthermore, all the theoretical knowledge that may have seemed irrelevant to us during our university studies can be effectively applied through the non-profit sector.

Contacts

When the topic of contacts arises, the initial association here in Dalmatia is “calling a man.” However, in Dalmatia, as well as in the business world, a “man” (person) encompasses much more than a mere contact in a mobile phone. Volunteering introduces us to collaborations with diverse organizations and large groups of individuals who share common goals. Engaging in business activities exposes us to the realm of business experts who lead in the realm of non-profit entrepreneurship, offering insights into their team dynamics, thought processes, and goal achievements.

One door always leads to another, and we never truly know what lies beyond that threshold. We remain unaware of available job positions and our own potential until we tap into this network of contacts. Volunteering not only unveils a whole new world of business opportunities but also provides a foundation for further career development.

Some of the most valuable business prospects are not advertised on job websites; instead, companies seek new employees within their inner circles. Trust me, we all aspire to be part of that inner circle. When someone recommends you for a job based on your past accomplishments, ambitions, enthusiasm, or demonstrated dedication through projects, it surpasses the significance of any resume.

Personal growth

Within non-profit organizations and civil society, we encounter diverse challenges and opportunities for growth. While the skills and knowledge acquired in these contexts enhance our resumes, the network of people with whom we genuinely enjoy spending time outside of work expands.

It is not uncommon for individuals to remain in the realm of non-profit organizations and civil society once they enter. A prime example of this is the Liberato association. Volunteers and students on professional placements have consistently chosen to stay within the association, developing their projects and building their careers in the non-profit sector. Interestingly enough, we are all students within the association.

So, let anyone dare to claim that students and young people are “inexperienced and inexperienced.”

Now, returning to the theme of personal growth, the positive and supportive atmosphere of volunteering imparts something else of utmost importance: social and emotional intelligence. In my opinion (though I’m no expert), these two intelligences are paramount for success in both work and life.

Social Responsibility

We are society.

Reread that. We are society!

The burden of responsibility for all the social injustices occurring around us rests upon us, and I believe we are all mature enough to shoulder a portion of that responsibility.

Consider this: if we revisit the earlier notion of the vortex, “No job without experience – no experience without work,” our social responsibility would involve initiating or joining existing initiatives aimed at improving the position of young people in the labor market.

We should not anticipate that someone else will do it on our behalf.

I deliberately placed social responsibility towards the end because, in this blog, my intention was to highlight the various other benefits we can derive from volunteering, which extend beyond solely fulfilling social obligations. Volunteering should not be perceived as a superficial act, allowing us to sleep with a light conscience due to a sense of having done something good.

Why do I say this?

The media has ingrained in us the idea that volunteering solely provides a wonderful feeling after performing acts of kindness. Don’t misunderstand me; I am not refuting this notion. However, when I observe the volunteer landscape in our region, I realize that it hasn’t been a significant motivating factor for us to engage in volunteer activities.

Volunteering is a mutually beneficial exchange. As much as you give, you receive in return. It is a two-way street.

In conclusion..

Volunteering can serve as your pathway, tool, or strategy for career development. All it requires is a small amount of free time and a genuine willingness to make remarkable new connections, acquire new skills, and stand out in the job market.

If this blog has sparked even a slight curiosity in you regarding the true potential of volunteering, feel free to reach out to us at info@udruga-liberato.hr, and we will gladly assist you in finding a volunteer position!

The time has come for the young generation to showcase their abilities and knowledge. It’s time to shine! :)