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College Admissions , Extracurriculars

Are you applying to a college or a scholarship that requires a community service essay? Do you know how to write an essay that will impress readers and clearly show the impact your work had on yourself and others?

Read on to learn step-by-step instructions for writing a great community service essay that will help you stand out and be memorable.

What Is a Community Service Essay? Why Do You Need One?

A community service essay is an essay that describes the volunteer work you did and the impact it had on you and your community. Community service essays can vary widely depending on specific requirements listed in the application, but, in general, they describe the work you did, why you found the work important, and how it benefited people around you.

Community service essays are typically needed for two reasons:

#1: To Apply to College

• Some colleges require students to write community service essays as part of their application or to be eligible for certain scholarships.
• You may also choose to highlight your community service work in your personal statement.

#2: To Apply for Scholarships

• Some scholarships are specifically awarded to students with exceptional community service experiences, and many use community service essays to help choose scholarship recipients.
• Green Mountain College offers one of the most famous of these scholarships. Their "Make a Difference Scholarship" offers full tuition, room, and board to students who have demonstrated a significant, positive impact through their community service

Getting Started With Your Essay

In the following sections, I'll go over each step of how to plan and write your essay. I'll also include sample excerpts for you to look through so you can get a better idea of what readers are looking for when they review your essay.

Step 1: Know the Essay Requirements

Before your start writing a single word, you should be familiar with the essay prompt. Each college or scholarship will have different requirements for their essay, so make sure you read these carefully and understand them.

Specific things to pay attention to include:

• Length requirement
• Application deadline
• The main purpose or focus of the essay
• If the essay should follow a specific structure

Below are three real community service essay prompts. Read through them and notice how much they vary in terms of length, detail, and what information the writer should include.

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

"Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words."

From the Laura W. Bush Traveling Scholarship:

"Essay (up to 500 words, double spaced) explaining your interest in being considered for the award and how your proposed project reflects or is related to both UNESCO's mandate and U.S. interests in promoting peace by sharing advances in education, science, culture, and communications."

From the LULAC National Scholarship Fund:

"Please type or print an essay of 300 words (maximum) on how your academic studies will contribute to your personal & professional goals. In addition, please discuss any community service or extracurricular activities you have been involved in that relate to your goals."

Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas

Even after you understand what the essay should be about, it can still be difficult to begin writing. Answer the following questions to help brainstorm essay ideas. You may be able to incorporate your answers into your essay.

• What community service activity that you've participated in has meant the most to you?
• What is your favorite memory from performing community service?
• Why did you decide to begin community service?
• What made you decide to volunteer where you did?
• How has your community service changed you?
• How has your community service helped others?
• How has your community service affected your plans for the future?

You don't need to answer all the questions, but if you find you have a lot of ideas for one of two of them, those may be things you want to include in your essay.

Writing Your Essay

How you structure your essay will depend on the requirements of the scholarship or school you are applying to. You may give an overview of all the work you did as a volunteer, or highlight a particularly memorable experience. You may focus on your personal growth or how your community benefited.

Regardless of the specific structure requested, follow the guidelines below to make sure your community service essay is memorable and clearly shows the impact of your work.

Samples of mediocre and excellent essays are included below to give you a better idea of how you should draft your own essay.

Step 1: Hook Your Reader In

You want the person reading your essay to be interested, so your first sentence should hook them in and entice them to read more. A good way to do this is to start in the middle of the action. Your first sentence could describe you helping build a house, releasing a rescued animal back to the wild, watching a student you tutored read a book on their own, or something else that quickly gets the reader interested. This will help set your essay apart and make it more memorable.

Compare these two opening sentences:

"I have volunteered at the Wishbone Pet Shelter for three years."

"The moment I saw the starving, mud-splattered puppy brought into the shelter with its tail between its legs, I knew I'd do whatever I could to save it."

The first sentence is a very general, bland statement. The majority of community service essays probably begin a lot like it, but it gives the reader little information and does nothing to draw them in. On the other hand, the second sentence begins immediately with action and helps persuade the reader to keep reading so they can learn what happened to the dog.

Step 2: Discuss the Work You Did

Once you've hooked your reader in with your first sentence, tell them about your community service experiences. State where you work, when you began working, how much time you've spent there, and what your main duties include. This will help the reader quickly put the rest of the essay in context and understand the basics of your community service work.

Not including basic details about your community service could leave your reader confused.

Step 3: Include Specific Details

It's the details of your community service that make your experience unique and memorable, so go into the specifics of what you did.

For example, don't just say you volunteered at a nursing home; talk about reading Mrs. Johnson her favorite book, watching Mr. Scott win at bingo, and seeing the residents play games with their grandchildren at the family day you organized. Try to include specific activities, moments, and people in your essay. Having details like these let the readers really understand what work you did and how it differs from other volunteer experiences.

Compare these two passages:

"For my volunteer work, I tutored children at a local elementary school. I helped them improve their math skills and become more confident students."

"As a volunteer at York Elementary School, I worked one-on-one with second and third graders who struggled with their math skills, particularly addition, subtraction, and fractions. As part of my work, I would create practice problems and quizzes and try to connect math to the students' interests. One of my favorite memories was when Sara, a student I had been working with for several weeks, told me that she enjoyed the math problems I had created about a girl buying and selling horses so much that she asked to help me create math problems for other students."

The first passage only gives basic information about the work done by the volunteer; there is very little detail included, and no evidence is given to support her claims. How did she help students improve their math skills? How did she know they were becoming more confident?

The second passage is much more detailed. It recounts a specific story and explains more fully what kind of work the volunteer did, as well as a specific instance of a student becoming more confident with her math skills. Providing more detail in your essay helps support your claims as well as make your essay more memorable and unique.

Step 4: Show Your Personality

It would be very hard to get a scholarship or place at a school if none of your readers felt like they knew much about you after finishing your essay, so make sure that your essay shows your personality. The way to do this is to state your personal strengths, then provide examples to support your claims. Take some time to think about which parts of your personality you would like your essay to highlight, then write about specific examples to show this.

• If you want to show that you're a motivated leader, describe a time when you organized an event or supervised other volunteers.
• If you want to show your teamwork skills, write about a time you helped a group of people work together better.
• If you want to show that you're a compassionate animal lover, write about taking care of neglected shelter animals and helping each of them find homes.

Step 5: State What You Accomplished

After you have described your community service and given specific examples of your work, you want to begin to wrap your essay up by stating your accomplishments. What was the impact of your community service? Did you build a house for a family to move into? Help students improve their reading skills? Clean up a local park? Make sure the impact of your work is clear; don't be worried about bragging here.

If you can include specific numbers, that will also strengthen your essay. Saying "I delivered meals to 24 home-bound senior citizens" is a stronger example than just saying "I delivered meals to lots of senior citizens."

Also be sure to explain why your work matters. Why is what you did important? Did it provide more parks for kids to play in? Help students get better grades? Give people medical care who would otherwise not have gotten it? This is an important part of your essay, so make sure to go into enough detail that your readers will know exactly what you accomplished and how it helped your community.

"My biggest accomplishment during my community service was helping to organize a family event at the retirement home. The children and grandchildren of many residents attended, and they all enjoyed playing games and watching movies together."

"The community service accomplishment that I'm most proud of is the work I did to help organize the First Annual Family Fun Day at the retirement home. My job was to design and organize fun activities that senior citizens and their younger relatives could enjoy. The event lasted eight hours and included ten different games, two performances, and a movie screening with popcorn. Almost 200 residents and family members attended throughout the day. This event was important because it provided an opportunity for senior citizens to connect with their family members in a way they aren't often able to. It also made the retirement home seem more fun and enjoyable to children, and we have seen an increase in the number of kids coming to visit their grandparents since the event."

The second passage is stronger for a variety of reasons. First, it goes into much more detail about the work the volunteer did. The first passage only states that she helped "organize a family event." That really doesn't tell readers much about her work or what her responsibilities were. The second passage is much clearer; her job was to "design and organize fun activities."

The second passage also explains the event in more depth. A family day can be many things; remember that your readers are likely not familiar with what you're talking about, so details help them get a clearer picture.

Lastly, the second passage makes the importance of the event clear: it helped residents connect with younger family members, and it helped retirement homes seem less intimidating to children, so now some residents see their grand kids more often.

Step 6: Discuss What You Learned

One of the final things to include in your essay should be the impact that your community service had on you. You can discuss skills you learned, such as carpentry, public speaking, animal care, or another skill.

You can also talk about how you changed personally. Are you more patient now? More understanding of others? Do you have a better idea of the type of career you want? Go into depth about this, but be honest. Don't say your community service changed your life if it didn't because trite statements won't impress readers.

In order to support your statements, provide more examples. If you say you're more patient now, how do you know this? Do you get less frustrated while playing with your younger siblings? Are you more willing to help group partners who are struggling with their part of the work? You've probably noticed by now that including specific examples and details is one of the best ways to create a strong and believable essay .

"As a result of my community service, I learned a lot about building houses and became a more mature person."

"As a result of my community service, I gained hands-on experience in construction. I learned how to read blueprints, use a hammer and nails, and begin constructing the foundation of a two-bedroom house. Working on the house could be challenging at times, but it taught me to appreciate the value of hard work and be more willing to pitch in when I see someone needs help. My dad has just started building a shed in our backyard, and I offered to help him with it because I know from my community service how much work it is. I also appreciate my own house more, and I know how lucky I am to have a roof over my head."

The second passage is more impressive and memorable because it describes the skills the writer learned in more detail and recounts a specific story that supports her claim that her community service changed her and made her more helpful.

Step 7: Finish Strong

Just as you started your essay in a way that would grab readers' attention, you want to finish your essay on a strong note as well. A good way to end your essay is to state again the impact your work had on you, your community, or both. Reiterate how you changed as a result of your community service, why you found the work important, or how it helped others.

Compare these two concluding statements:

"In conclusion, I learned a lot from my community service at my local museum, and I hope to keep volunteering and learning more about history."

"To conclude, volunteering at my city's American History Museum has been a great experience. By leading tours and participating in special events, I became better at public speaking and am now more comfortable starting conversations with people. In return, I was able to get more community members interested in history and our local museum. My interest in history has deepened, and I look forward to studying the subject in college and hopefully continuing my volunteer work at my university's own museum."

The second passage takes each point made in the first passage and expands upon it. In a few sentences, the second passage is able to clearly convey what work the volunteer did, how she changed, and how her volunteer work benefited her community.

The author of the second passage also ends her essay discussing her future and how she'd like to continue her community service, which is a good way to wrap things up because it shows your readers that you are committed to community service for the long-term.

What's Next?

Are you applying to a community service scholarship or thinking about it? We have a complete list of all the community service scholarships available to help get your search started!

Do you need a community service letter as well? We have a step-by-step guide that will tell you how to get a great reference letter from your community service supervisor.

Thinking about doing community service abroad? Before you sign up, read our guide on some of the hazards of international volunteer trips and how to know if it's the right choice for you.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

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Volunteering Essay

• Author StudySaurus
• Category Popular Essay Topics

Disclaimer: This paper has been submitted by a student. This is not a sample of the work written by professional academic writers.

Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this work are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of StudySaurus.

Topic: From what frequent activity do you derive your joy? Why is this activity meaningful to you and how does it shape your perspective on life?

My Volunteer Experience

I personally enjoy helping people with other problem they have because I always try to picture myself in another person’s shoes. I don’t enjoy watching people suffer or being unable to do certain things because I feel that it is every human’s responsibility to help those who cannot help themselves. Knowing that I can make a difference in someone’s day by just providing my assistance is very important to me because I can help bring ease to people. Volunteering to help others is where I derive my greatest joy from.

In the past few years, my volunteering experiences has allowed me to gain new perspectives on life. For example, when I volunteered at my local hospital, Nassau University Medical Center, in the summer of 2014, I was able to realize why I was such a valuable asset to a hospital as a volunteer. When I originally signed up to volunteer at the hospital, it was because I had to meet a service requirement for my school’s honor society, the Scholar Service Institute. However, after my first week of volunteering, I started to develop a love for helping people.

I realized that in the hospital, volunteers are very much needed because a hospital is a community of people working together to ensure the lives of hundreds of people. In that community of the working people, you have people such as pharmacists, who work hard to make sure that every patient gets their correct medication. However, for the pharmacists to deliver that medication to the different floors of the hospital is very time-consuming, but as a volunteer I was able to ease their job by delivering the medications to all the different floors of the hospital. Reflecting on this experience still brings me joy because I was able to help imperative people of a hospital efficiently get their job done and help patients get better with proper medication.

Another experience of volunteering is the bake sale my friends and I organized on Valentine’s Day of 2016 for Make-A-Wish foundation. We held a bake sale at the parish of our school, St. Mary’s Church. I feel that this experience was one of the most joyful volunteering experiences I was able to have. I felt that my friends and I could aid children of terminal diseases such as Lymphoma by helping them to experience some joy in their life. With the help of the funds of the $334 we raised at our bake sale, Make-A-Wish was able to grant the wishes of these ill children.

Whenever I volunteer, I never think of the personal benefits I will get. I always consider how others will benefit from my assistance. The pleasure of knowing that my assistance in the lives of others can make a difference is all the convincing I need to get out and volunteer.

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Essay About Volunteering

Volunteering is a way of helping others. It is giving a person 's time and ability to help someone who may be in need of help. Not only does volunteering help others, but what they may not know is that it can be helpful to themselves. It is a great way for someone to interact with others in their community. It gives someone that time to themselves while also creating bonds when they are doing the greater good. The effects of volunteering can range from many helpful characteristics. From helping those in need, giving back to the community, working for worthwhile causes, and overall helping someone with their health, mentally and physically. Volunteering can affect many people in different ways, but what most do not know is that it can help with …show more content…

When volunteering, people become close to the ones with whom they are volunteering. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and gain more friends for life. Not only can someone create new bonds when they volunteer, but they can also make the bonds they already have with somebody stronger. The article, "15 Unexpected Benefits of Volunteering That Will Inspire You" states, "Volunteering creates stronger bonds between friends, family, and coworkers." When volunteering, it gets the volunteer out there and makes them be more social. With them being more social and civil with others, this causes them to create those new bonds and friendships. People who volunteer can build better connections, more powerful attachments, and closer relationships with people when they work together. If someone is feeling they need to connect to people on a different level, they could try volunteering together. Many different causes can affect how friendships are developed. Meeting new people through volunteering causes somebody to develop new friendships while they are doing good for their community. Developing new friendships causes a very positive effect on people 's lives. Meeting new people and becoming good friends is a wonderful thing. It can all come from reaching out and

National Honor Society Four Pillars

I love volunteering because even though you don't get money for helping someone, you get the joy and happiness of knowing you did something good for someone else. Being a member of Key Club and Junior Optimist I have the opportunity to volunteer frequently in the community and to the school. I have volunteered to work in various booths at the Glandorf Park Fest. I helped work at the YMCA Trunk or Treat to pass out candy to the little kids on Halloween. A group of my friends went over to Kalida to help with the Triathlon.

Mandatory Public Service Rhetorical Analysis

When the topic of volunteering would be mentioned upon me and my peers, we would most likely change the subject or disperse. Volunteering is something that is rising in our generation, yet is hidden in the shadows at the same time. In Kent Ansen’s essay, “Should the United States Establish Mandatory Public Service for Young Adults?” the author tells the audience why public service should be mandatory. I believe that volunteering is an amazing subject that comes with unbelievable benefits to the person and the environment that is affected by the, but at the same time, should not be mandatory for everyone.

Personal Narrative: United Way Of Snohomish

I never thought that volunteering would bring me much happiness and joy. It feels very nice when you help others and this happens to me every time I prepare and fill the taxes of the people who come to do their taxes to our office. The people who come are people of low income, and my heart feels leno and beats hard every time I help someone. This is my first experience being a volunteer and now I want to

Required Volunteering

Many high school students around the country are required to do a certain number of community service hours before they are able to graduate. While there seems to be no problem with that requirement, some people believe that forced volunteering isn't truly volunteering. If someone is being helped by these services, it does not matter whether it is forced or not. Volunteerism promotes good citizenship and betters all people who take part in it. Required service hours could also work as a factor that simply encourages students to participate in service related events.

Bowling Alone: America's Declining Social Capital

These critics argue that volunteer work is the government’s disguised attempt to lessen their responsibilities within communities (412). To combat this argument Dunlap and Stukas suggest, “Such criticism often fails to recognize that, in many cases, community involvement can provide tangible benefits for the individuals, communities, and societies…” (413). When everyone works together for the common good of the community, everyone benefits from this; the individual, the community, and the society. Not only does the engagement within the community build the social capital, but it also builds trust amongst the neighbors. When there is trust, there is fellowship, and fellowship paves the path to flourishment.

High School National Honor Society

In addition to helping the community, volunteering has helped me build the person I am today. The warm feeling that I get after volunteering is an honorable feeling that influences me to become a better person and makes me know that I can be there for

Volunteering Personal Statement

It is always a god way to support a community and as well meet new people, and help others. I feel that everyone should volunteer because you will gain a lot out of life by helping others. I am glad I got the chance to volunteer, because I felt better about myself knowing that I helped others, and I look forward toward more opportunities like this. I know that my experience as has been a wonderful opportunity to grow as a person, and I have made use of this to the best of my ability.

Maslow's Theory Of Volunteering

In the general perspective, volunteering refers to a kind of helping activity that benefit others or the wider community and it has been done by an individual or a group of people who are not

Persuasive Speech On Volunteering

III. From volunteering, you can increase your humanity sense, can easily connect with others people, can easily build your self-confidence and also can gain more experience. IV. It is my believe that, charity event is very synonym with a volunteering services. V. After doing and extensive research and observation, I have realized that volunteerism is not only occur when you take part in the event, but helping people in need anywhere and everywhere also can be considered as volunteer.

East Carolina University Student Analysis

I volunteer for different types of things like my doctor’s office, family business, and religious organizations. I volunteer at my doctor’s office by helping the nurses with the patients, and cleaning up after them. I volunteer to help manage the family business and give them a hand with different tasks. I spend an abundant time volunteering for religious organizations like Indian dances and activities by organizing events and planning things out. I have had many different outstanding educational experiences in my past, like AP and Honors classes, clubs and volunteering in my community.

Argumentative Essay On Volunteering

Volunteering has been proven to reduce mischief in adolescents, depression, heart disease, and even stress. If a person were to feel unimportant, volunteering has a way of making them feel like an important role in society. For all ages, volunteering can benefit each age group. To adolescents, it can keep them out of trouble and teach them life lessons. For adults, it can improve their self-worth and overall happiness in life.

Personal Narrative: My Journey To New Jersey

Furthermore, engaging in volunteer work can help to carry a great deal of change. These acts of service create a better sense of community while making a stronger connection. Being involved can support a person’s individual mental and physical health.

A Personal Reflection Of Volunteering

1. In the summer of 2017, I volunteered once a week for 6-8 weeks with an organization called The First Tee, which works with youth to teach them life skills via the game of golf. Starting as young as 5-6 years old, the participants learn to play golf and develop their skills in the sport, but a large aspect of the organization’s mission is to teach children life skills such as integrity, honesty, and responsibility. Through golf they learn to be courteous to those around them and to always act with integrity as well.

Essay On Community Service

Community service does not only have a profound impact on our community, but the impact it has on the individual people is even greater. The concept of community service has always been something that I grew up with, and now that I am older I better understand how important community service is for society. I have participated in community service activities. Starting in elementary school, I helped feed the homeless and rescue animals. Even with my wide range of volunteer experience, it was difficult to find an activity that would be meaningful and fulfill my thirty-hour obligation for my senior project.

Volunteer Scholarship Essay

When I was a little girl, I faced an opportunity that I did not know would be so life-changing. When I was first presented with this opportunity, I wanted to refuse because it seemed so boring and lame. As a kid, I thought I had better ways to use my time. However, I decided to do it, and soon realized that this was a great choice. This time turned out to be one of the best times in my life.

More about Essay About Volunteering

65 Volunteerism Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best volunteerism topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 most interesting volunteerism topics to write about, 💡 good research topics about volunteerism.

• Importance of Volunteerism Essay A society where people volunteer and work together is always faces less problems since all the members tend to get along well and support each when they are in need.
• Community service should be required by most citizens of a country One of the reasons is because President Clinton has been explaining the importance of volunteering to the community by the American students and the public. We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
• Concept of the Community Services in Modern Society Community services are defined as the services which are performed for the benefit of the society on volunteering basis. The advantages of the community services cannot be questioned, still, making such service mandatory for graduation […]
• Volunteerism Is Important in Canada Nevertheless, there is a view that volunteering is the exploitation of free labor of workers and a waste of time since such delivery is not paid.
• Volunteerism in Corporate America Construct validity is significant for the research which is expected to be done in this dissertation. A threat to construct validity is the reliability of a test.
• Job Satisfaction and Employee Retention Correlates of Corporate Volunteerism The proposed sub-sample size of 200 is a prudent compromise between precision and the cost of enlarging the samples. The investigation of cause-and-effect can be projected with a reasonable degree of confidence to the universe […]
• Significant Voluntary Sector Organisations Challenges in Public Service Delivery The main concern raised in the conference was a discussion of the role of voluntary organisations in the delivery of public services.
• Addressing the Impacts of Undergraduates’ Engagement in Community Service on Stakeholders It is important to note that as much as the community and the individual stands to benefit from community service, there are various challenges facing the provision of this service in a given community.
• Illuminate Diabetes Event Design Finally, after these special performances, there will be distribution of fliers with information on diabetes and encouragement to get tested for diabetes and thus reach the climax of the event.
• Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board The Hampton-Newport Community Services Board offers a broad range of mental well-being and drug abuse services and care for people with mental and developmental disorders. The agency works together with certified psychoanalysts and psychologists in […]
• Volunteering in Leisure Sector The review shows that individuals are motivated due to the benefits that come with volunteering in the sector and the nature of the activity.
• Helping, Giving, and Volunteerism The role of voluntarism in term of donations and giving is immense and continues to change the lives of many people in different parts of the world.
• Volunteering for Horizon House: Homeless Neighbours’ Motivation to Find Jobs To understand and analyze the role of the center in changing the homeless neighbours’ life for better, it is appropriate to focus on the center’s assistance in employing neighbours and developing their job skills with […]
• Conceptualization of the Aspect of Community Service As part of expressive the Jewish values, the aspect of creativity and innovativeness help to inspire the inner self to remain observant, responsible, and caring to the needs of neighbors and the society at large.
• Community Service: Mandatory or Voluntary? Engaging in community service not only helps in transforming the behavior of young people but it is also helpful to adults.
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• The Community Outreach and Volunteerism Division at Southwest Airlines
• The Effects of Volunteerism and Social Capital as Well as Health
• Motivational Factors Affecting Olympic Volunteerism Among Turkish University Students
• Volunteerism and Employee Encouragement
• Crowding in With Impure Altruism: Theory and Evidence From Volunteerism in National Parks
• The Different Forms of Volunteerism to Help and Keep People Safe
• Changes in Volunteerism in the Info Revolution: Volunteering Community Service
• Volunteerism After the Tsunami: The Effects of Democratization
• Employee Volunteerism in Kenya
• Integration of Seven Habits to Professional Volunteerism Administration
• Capacity Building in Community Engagement and Volunteerism
• An Analysis of Public Service and Volunteerism in the United States
• Mandatory Volunteerism: Growing Within the Education System
• Community Service and Student Volunteerism
• Leadership Accountability and Ethics in Volunteerism and Volunteer Management
• Mandatory Volunteerism Is the Act of Forcing Young Adults
• Volunteerism and Community Service in America Today
• Corporate Social Responsibility and Employee Volunteerism
• History of Volunteerism in the US: A Crash Course
• Solidarity, Volunteerism and Social Order
• Motivations and Perceptions of Volunteerism as a Leisure Activity
• Volunteerism and Volunteer Management in Sport
• The Context and Process of Volunteerism
• Dispositional and Structural Determinants of Volunteerism
• Volunteerism: Social Issues Perspectives and Social Policy Implications
• Demographic Understanding of Volunteerism
• The Role of Individual and Collective Identification in Aids Volunteerism
• Volunteerism in Adolescence: A Process Perspective
• The Functional Approach to Volunteerism
• The Unintended Consequences of Volunteerism: Positive Outcomes for Those Who Serve
• Factors Affecting Volunteerism among Older Adults
• The Psychology of Aids Volunteerism
• The Influence of Altruism on the Study of Volunteering
• A Model of Sustained Volunteerism during the Transition to Adulthood
• Volunteerism by Elders: Past Trends and Future Prospects
• Volunteerism: The Influences of Social, Religious, and Human Capital
• What Are the Benefits of Volunteerism to Society?
• Volunteerism in Emergencies and Disasters: Definition, Opportunities and Challenges
• The Role, Measurement, and Impact of Volunteerism in Hospitals
• Assessing Motivations for Sports Volunteerism
• The Effects of “Mandatory Volunteerism” on Intentions to Volunteer
• Volunteerism as an Occupation and Its Relationship to Health and Wellbeing
• A Functional Analysis of Altruism and Prosocial Behavior: The Case of Volunteerism
• Describing Volunteerism: The Theory of Unified Responsibility
• Volunteerism, Leadership, Political Socialization, and Civic Engagement
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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Volunteering Essays (Examples)

1000+ documents containing “volunteering” .

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Volunteering and its significance there are various.

Volunteering and Its Significance There are various incidences that we have over time come to get people volunteering, for instance in different organizations, charitable institutions, there are volunteering in the neighborhood drives, environmental cleanups, volunteering even in fund raising for the community and even to the lower level of taking some time to help the neighbor take care of their overwhelming chores. Having a family of two little kids, one nine years old and the other six years old, both girls, my concern is mostly on the ability to bring them up to be the right citizens in the U.S.A. And achieve the best they can in the sense of humanitarian and social aspects of life. There have been several incidents of our family giving a helping hand in voluntary service and trying to help where we can. The last of the several voluntary works was my family volunteered at a soup kitchen….

Volunteering in Favor of Community

As part of the community service requirement, students will also gain valuable experience in service that cannot be provided by most part time jobs that are accessible to teenagers. The requirement will give students ideas about possible professions as well, from becoming a social worker, to a hospital employee, a teacher -- even a forest ranger! From the community's point-of-view, the local community will benefit from the added aid to charitable organizations. Also, volunteer work is an important requirement for many college applications. True, some students already engage in such service as part of the high school Key Club or local service organizations -- but for those who do not, fifty hours over the course of four years of publicly funded education is hardly an unreasonable expectation. The community gives a great deal to its students -- students are our hopes, dreams, and futures. But to realize their own, fullest potentials later….

Volunteering at My College Campus

In terms of language development, most of the children I observed were still at the beginning stage of this process which will eventually result in their ability to talk, listen, and to communicate with people at will. The vast majority of the children I witnessed showed indications of their natural proclivity to language -- meaning that they made noises and sounds, particularly when they were playing with one another and with members of the daycare staff. However, very few of them were able to form actual words, or at least any words that I was able to recognize. What was interesting about this aspect of observation was the fact that several of the children were able to make the same sort of sounds repetitively -- if not the exact same sound, then at least something quite similar to it. In this respect and by using this method of "communication," some….

Volunteering in the Community

Community Service I feel that it is important for young people to engage in community service. It is important to establish at an early age that you are part of a larger community. One of the things that happens, especially in high school, is that you become quite focused on yourself. Your world is fairly small, mostly just a small geographic area, your friends and family. Community service broadens a young person's world, giving them experiences that they otherwise would not have. In the course of community service, you see a lot of things. I volunteered at a nursing home, where you basically are assigned one person with whom to meet weekly and talk to. I was assigned a younger person with a mental disability who was unable to take care of himself, a low functioning person. This experience was exceptionally eye-opening. You see the people working there and learn things about….

Good Life Volunteering Trends Give

Rates of volunteering have also increased 64% for Americans ages 65 years and over since 1974. Additionally, the proportion of Americans volunteering for an educational or youth group has increased 63% since 1989. In light of the increased interest in volunteering amongst persons with more flexible schedules like teens, college students, and retirees, Heifer International runs study tours to enable these demographics combine travel with volunteerism. Also, Heifer International has a specific fundraising ideas section on its website for youth groups. Community giving and combining personal enrichment with volunteering is likely to become an even more significant trend in the future, as the population grows older and also as students seek to improve their resumes for colleges and for the competitive job market with unique experiences like volunteering for organizations like Heifer International. orks Cited Volunteer Growth in America: A Review of Trends since 1974." (2006). Corporation For National and Community Service. Retrieved….

Works Cited

Volunteer Growth in America: A Review of Trends since 1974." (2006). Corporation

For National and Community Service. Retrieved 4 Feb 2007 at  http://www.nationalservice.gov/about/role_impact/performance_research.asp 

Heifer International. (2006). Official Website. Retrieved 4 Feb 2007 at  http://www.heifer.org/site/c.edJRKQNiFiG/b.201443

Managing and Motivating Volunteering Staff

ole of Management in ewarding Volunteers Organizational leadership entails the proper maintenance of structures and systems within the company. This requires that the leadership from the top to the bottom have to be made to work together in a proper manner. This has to be done for the sake of maintaining a proper leadership system in the organization in question. The situation is trickier in situation where the employees are working on voluntary system basis because there is little remuneration to boost their motivation. In such cases, instances of quarrels and disagreements between the top leadership and the rest of the employees are commonplace. This is evident in the case of the Online University. The management had chosen to open a broadcasting station for use in communication. The following study identifies the appropriate management strategy for employees a volunteering regime. The Online University has understaffed its management. It is run on….

Michale. T. (2013) Developing & managing volunteers. Washington D.C.: FEMA.

McSweeney, P., & Alexander, D. (2010). Managing volunteers effectively. Aldershot: Arena.

Shepard, M. (2009). Volunteer benefits. St. Paul, Minn.: Research Dept., Minnesota House of Representatives.

Volunteer to Better Health

Volunteer to etter Health Volunteerism and Personal Development While an academic definition of volunteerism is any activity in which time and talent is given freely to deliver services or perform tasks to benefit another person, group or cause with no direct financial compensation expected, volunteering is really just a more organized form of giving of ourselves to contribute in some way to shape our own future and that of others. Surveys show that most people believe that helping others has a positive effect on the general well-being of both the donor and the recipient. The positive relationship between subjective and objective well-being and volunteer work include life-satisfaction, self-esteem, and self-rated health. Also, volunteers increase the opportunity to advance educational and occupational objectives when exploring the idea that volunteering benefits both the helper and the helped. It has also been suggested that the degree of one's well-being in helping redress the damaging affects of our….

Bibliography

Volunteerism and Personal Development:

Monthly Seminar for Integrating Volunteer Service into Career and Personal Lives. Centre for Adult development. (27 March, 2004. http://www.adultdev.org/VOLUNTEER.htm

Volunteering and Healthy Aging: What We Know. Volunteerism in Canada.

A march, 2004.  http://www.volunteer.ca/volcan/eng/content/older-adults/canada_adults_report_printable.htm

Volunteer Shelter the Center Against Family Violence

Volunteer Shelter The Center Against Family Violence (CAFV), located in El Paso, TX is an organization dedicated to confront and prevent domestic violence in all its forms. The CAFV started out as a hotline service but has not blossomed into comprehensive shelter that aims to protect those who have been harmed due to domestic violence. To become a volunteer at CAFV, a lengthy and tough training program is necessary. Since many of the women who use these services need protection, confidentiality and security policies are put into place that make it difficult to simply volunteer at this shelter. A lengthy application must be filled out as well as a criminal background check must be performed before you are allowed to volunteer at this shelter. Personal references are also required. This process is much like being employed there as the hiring standards and the volunteering standards are very similar. According to their website….

CAFV homepage. Viewed 3 November 2013. Retrieved from  http://www.cafv.org/volunteer/volunteer-at-cafv

Volunteers in Community Safety the

Examples of material donations are the kits and medication used for the treatment of rehabilitated youths who formerly indulged in drug abuse. The Local Authority -- the local authority is another important source of funding for the project. The local authority gives cash donations as well as the provision of community warders to aid in providing security in the neighbourhoods and town. Power and stratification within the organisation The etter Youth project is an initiative that is headed by the UK government through the home office. Most of the administrative decisions are made by the Home Office through the Directors who is chosen by the home office. The projects are to be done through the direct supervision of both the Home Office and the various stakeholders. Engagement with the community My engagement with the community is based on patriotism. As a citizen of the UK, I feel that it is my responsibility to ensure….

Hibell, B., Andersson, B., Bjarnason, T. et al. (2004) The ESPAD Report 2003. Alcoholand other Drug use among students in 35 European Countries.Stockholm:The SwedishCouncil for Information on Alcohol and Other Drugs, The Pompidou group at the Council of Europe.

Hope, T. And Murphy, D. (1983) The Problems of Implementing Crime Prevention:

The experience of a demonstration project. The Howard Journal of Criminal Justice

Volunteers America's Involvement Responsibilityto Community Summarize Factors

Volunteers America's involvement responsibilityto community. Summarize factors influenced social responsibility The social responsibility strategies of the Volunteers of America were shaped by a number of interrelated factors. The most eminent of these pertained to Christianity. The organization was conceived as a means of propagating Christianity's notions of goodwill towards all when it was initiated in 1897 by Maud and Ballington Booth. Christianity is a religion that focuses on social responsibility and is extremely community oriented. It was this aspect of this religion that led the founders of this organization to attempt to have a volunteer-based organization to carry out the goals of the religion, which became largely synonymous with the goals of the organization. Specifically, factors relating to the strategies for social responsibility for Volunteers of America, have to do with social reform as conceived by Methodists during the 18th century. Social reform movements that were religiously inspired in the 19th….

McGee, T. (2012). "Nonprofit groups essential for disadvantaged residents." www.triblive.com. Retrieved from  http://triblive.com/neighborhoods/yourfoxchapel/yourfoxchapelmore/3131196-74/needs-christmas-area#axzz2MXRsBHXP 

No author. (2013). "Volunteers of America." www.voa.org. Retrieved from  http://www.voa.org/About-Us/Our-Statement-of-Values-and-Code-of-Ethics

Volunteer Placement at Open Hand

The Catechism of the Catholic Church has a discussion of a "Love for the Poor," stating "those who are oppressed by poverty are the object of a preferential love on the part of the Church" ("Article 7: The Seventh Commandment, VI. Love for the Poor, 2448"). With these words and teachings of the Church, I took it as my duty to help those in need, realizing that, although we may be classed as a rich country, we still have the same social problems as many so-called third world countries. Through the past 20 hours of service at Project Open Hand, I have learned a great deal about poverty in the country in which I live and have seen the relevance of the teachings of the Catholic Church. Although I myself was greatly surprised by how little I knew about the poverty situation in the United States, there is a great….

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Catholic Campaign for Human Development.

"Poverty USA: The State of Poverty in America." Poverty in America. Web. 22 Apr. 2010.

"Article 7: The Seventh Commandment, VI. Love for the Poor, 2448." Catechism of the Catholic

Church: Second Edition. Web. 22 Apr. 2010.

Need for More Volunteer Firefighters

Volunteer Firefighters Need for More Volunteer Firefighters Volunteer Firefighting is declining at an alarming pace and there are many reasons associated with this worrisome trend. It is imperative to not only study those cause but also devise practical means of resolving the problems of recruitment and retention. This paper, therefore, discusses the major reasons and the consequential recommendations as to improving volunteer firefighter numbers. The need for an active firefighting force in itself is inherently important for large scale disaster management. Disaster management is a field that always calls for improvement in today's world as lives are vulnerable to hazards almost every day. And needless to say that firefighting in particular, is a venerable trade that deserves to have more investment in terms of physical as well as human capital. The need to augment the value of firefighting as a profession is ever prevalent, not only because of the exalted nature of the….

Bartel, L. (1998). Recruiting Volunteer Firefighters. Clark County Fire Number 12, Ridgefield. Washington: Executive Fire Officer Program. Retrieved February 2013

D'Intino, R.S. (2006). Volunteer Firefighter Recruitment and Retention In Rural Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania State University, Pennsylvania. Retrieved February 2013

Fisher, J.R., & Maxfield, R.J. (2012, January). The Need For Fire Service Professional Development. (H. P. III, Ed.) Business and Global Social Responsibility, 19 No. 2. Retrieved from  http://works.bepress.com/john_fisher/11 

Graff, L.L. (2009). Reconceptualizing The Value Of Volunteer Work. The Value of Volunteer Work. Retrieved February 2013

Decline in Fire and EMS Volunteers in the US

Volunteer Firefighting The current setting of our country's economic position leaves many questions unanswered and creates new problems in unexpected areas. Volunteer firefighters are in short demand these days and it is necessary and important to investigate and gain knowledge of the reasons why this trend is occurring. The purpose of this essay is to examine some root causes of the current decline in volunteer firefighting across the United States of America. In addition to describing the causes of this problem, I will also introduce some proposed solutions that may be helpful in setting a new trend towards solving this problem. Most agree in today's world volunteer firefighters are in sharp decline and retention of these workers is suffering as well. Markley (2012) recently warned the firefighting community when stated that "when the National Fire Protection Association released its latest figures on the number of firefighters in the United States last October,….

Flemming, J. (2011, July 11). Decline in volunteering hurts fire departments around the country. Firerescue 1, Retrieved from  http://www.firerescue1.com/recruitment/articles/1080089 - Decline-in-volunteering-hurts-fire-departments-around-the-country/

Markley, R. (2012, March 1). "A Dangerous Dilemma. Retrieved from  http://firechief.com/leadership/ar/volunteer-firefighter-recruitment-changes - 201203?page=1

Salsberry, G. (2012). As number decline nationwide, local volunteer firefighters holding steady.Colletontoday.com, 20 July 2012. Retrieved from  http://colletontoday.com/news/as-number-decline-nationwide-local-volunteer - firefighters-holding-steady/article_a589fee8-d26f-11e1-9ea0-0019bb2963f4.html

Why I Volunteer in My Kids School

Volunteering is a way in which an individual can enrich his or her life while serving others. Volunteering provides a sense of community and self-worth. Perspectives can improve and lives can be changed when one chooses to volunteer and give of oneself. One reason why I volunteer is simply because the school needs help with so many functions and activities. Volunteering also helps me appreciate and respect those who work at the school on a daily basis. Volunteering is a way for me to escape from the stress of my world. When I volunteer and become involved with someone else, I lose track of time and discover that I am really enjoying myself. Another reason I volunteer is that it makes me feel great to help with school functions and activities. I get to be a part of the process, which gives me a sense of purpose and I also get….

Individuals Might Volunteer to Help Others by

individuals might volunteer to help others by comparing experimental results with the self-reported motivations of Teach for America volunteers. Ultimately, the study demonstrates that volunteerism is rooted in self-interest, and this is evidenced by not only the experimental data, but by the actions of Teach for America as an organization as well as the self-reports of individual members. Although this does not help explain why volunteerism is held in such high regard, it does serve to demonstrate that volunteering and ostensibly altruistic actions are not as difficult to explain as one might think. The question of why people volunteer to help others is difficult to answer succinctly, because answering it demands that one consider a number of relatively disparate fields of study and investigation, including everything from evolutionary psychology to management theory. However, one can at least begin to formulate a general explanation of volunteerism that seems to hold regardless….

Fogarty, M. 2011, "Teach for America fails the test," Education, pp. 7.

Katz, S.J. 2007, "Teach for America, Hope for the Future," Bioscience, vol. 57, no. 9, pp. 735.

Kent, K.J. 1997, "So why should anyone get involved with volunteer organizations?," Chemical

Engineering Progress, pp. 12.

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Family and Marriage

Volunteering and Its Significance There are various incidences that we have over time come to get people volunteering, for instance in different organizations, charitable institutions, there are volunteering in the…

As part of the community service requirement, students will also gain valuable experience in service that cannot be provided by most part time jobs that are accessible to teenagers.…

Reaction Paper

In terms of language development, most of the children I observed were still at the beginning stage of this process which will eventually result in their ability to talk,…

Community Service I feel that it is important for young people to engage in community service. It is important to establish at an early age that you are part of…

Rates of volunteering have also increased 64% for Americans ages 65 years and over since 1974. Additionally, the proportion of Americans volunteering for an educational or youth group…

Business - Management

ole of Management in ewarding Volunteers Organizational leadership entails the proper maintenance of structures and systems within the company. This requires that the leadership from the top to the…

Volunteer to etter Health Volunteerism and Personal Development While an academic definition of volunteerism is any activity in which time and talent is given freely to deliver services or perform tasks…

Sports - Women

Volunteer Shelter The Center Against Family Violence (CAFV), located in El Paso, TX is an organization dedicated to confront and prevent domestic violence in all its forms. The CAFV started…

Sports - Drugs

Examples of material donations are the kits and medication used for the treatment of rehabilitated youths who formerly indulged in drug abuse. The Local Authority -- the local authority…

Mythology - Religion

Volunteers America's involvement responsibilityto community. Summarize factors influenced social responsibility The social responsibility strategies of the Volunteers of America were shaped by a number of interrelated factors. The most…

The Catechism of the Catholic Church has a discussion of a "Love for the Poor," stating "those who are oppressed by poverty are the object of a preferential…

Volunteer Firefighters Need for More Volunteer Firefighters Volunteer Firefighting is declining at an alarming pace and there are many reasons associated with this worrisome trend. It is imperative to not only…

Volunteer Firefighting The current setting of our country's economic position leaves many questions unanswered and creates new problems in unexpected areas. Volunteer firefighters are in short demand these days and…

Volunteering is a way in which an individual can enrich his or her life while serving others. Volunteering provides a sense of community and self-worth. Perspectives can improve and…

individuals might volunteer to help others by comparing experimental results with the self-reported motivations of Teach for America volunteers. Ultimately, the study demonstrates that volunteerism is rooted in…

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Blog > Application Strategy , Common App , Personal Statement > 4 Questions to Ask Before Writing a College Essay About Volunteering

4 Questions to Ask Before Writing a College Essay About Volunteering

Admissions officer reviewed by Ben Bousquet, M.Ed Former Vanderbilt University

Written by Alex McNeil, MA Admissions Consultant

Key Takeaway

You know that colleges are on the search for students who will be good community members, so writing about your volunteer work or community service probably seems like an obvious choice. But with a common topic like volunteering, it’s easy for your essay to fall flat.

If you’re thinking about writing your Common App essay about volunteering, you should consider asking yourself these five questions before making your final topic selection.

College Essays About Volunteering are Common

Let’s face it. Most high school students have done some kind of volunteer work. Many high schools even require students to complete volunteer hours before they can graduate.

Community service + college essay = home run, right?

Well, not necessarily.

Because volunteering is such a common experience, it’s not a particularly unique topic to write your college essay about. We explain in our guide to college essays that you don’t have to write about a unique topic to write a great college essay. But if you choose one of the really common topics—which volunteering is—then you’ll have a more challenging time writing an essay that stands out.

Questions to Ask Yourself

So, is volunteering the right topic for you? The following four questions will help you decide.

1. Is the experience I’m writing about one that genuinely changed my life in a tangible way that can be explained with specific examples?

The volunteer experience you write about shouldn’t be one-off or surface-level. If it’s important enough to write your college essay on, then it should have deeply impacted you.

You should also be able to draw out salient stories or examples.

2. Am I passionate about continuing to devote my time to this cause in the future?

A “yes” to this question ensures that you’re crafting a good cohesive application narrative . The cause you’re volunteering for should be one you’re passionate about.

3. Is this the best story I have to tell, and is it the one that will say the most about me to an admissions committee?

When coming up with a college essay topic, it’s always important to ask this question. If you have another topic that would better explain who you are and why to an admissions committee, then it’s worth re-considering.

4. Is the story I want to tell one that I can and should center myself in?

Finally, this last question is an important one. Sometimes college essays about volunteering come across as inauthentic when the writer comes in to save the day. Other essays focus too much on others or inappropriately center the writer. Make sure your volunteering experience lends itself to a personal statement.

If the answer to all of these questions is yes, then write on! If the answer to any of these questions is no, then consider alternative topics .

Good College Essays about Volunteering

Okay, with those questions out of the way, let’s take a look at two ways college essays about volunteering can stand out.

Passion and Community Fit

Community fit is why most applicants write about volunteering in the first place. You want to show admissions officers that you’re a good person who knows how to engage with your community. What better way to do that than by showing them your tangible actions?

When your volunteer experience speaks to a part of your application narrative , then it can work to strengthen how an admissions officer understands who you are.

Let’s say you’re an aspiring elementary education major who was deeply impacted by your volunteer work tutoring a second grader in your school’s mentorship program. Awesome! Your volunteer work aligns with a clear passion, and it makes sense in the broader scope of your application.

Or maybe you’re applying to a computer science program and volunteered your time to create a website for your local food bank. Amazing—an admissions officer will clearly see how your volunteer work coheres with your values and academic goals.

Exceptional Accomplishment

The other great reason to write about your volunteer work is if you have a related outstanding accomplishment. Remember: the key to writing about your extracurricular activities is showing your magnitude, reach, and impact . If you’ve had a significant effect on others through volunteering, then it can be a great way to show admissions officers the extent of your involvement.

So what might magnitude, reach, or impact in volunteering look like? Maybe you raised thousands of dollars for an organization. Maybe it was even an organization that you started. Or perhaps you spearheaded a massive initiative, coordinated hundreds of volunteers, or designed a new way of helping others. Maybe your work made it to the local or national media, or maybe you were awarded a leadership position for your efforts.

Tangible, actionable, and quantifiable accomplishments that go beyond the four walls of your school can help you stand out to the admissions committee.

Key Takeaways

At best, essays about volunteering can showcase your passion, compassion, and community fit for an institution. But they can also be generic essays that get lost in the crowd. At worst, they can be reductive in how they discuss complex social issues.

Writing about volunteering will be in your best interest when it is a core part of your application narrative or it demonstrates exceptional reach, magnitude, or impact. Otherwise, try brainstorming other college essay topics .

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The power of volunteerism

People the world over engage in volunteerism for a great variety of reasons: to help to eliminate poverty and to improve basic health and education, to tackle environmental issues, to reduce the risk of disasters or to combat social exclusion and violent conflict. In all of these fields, volunteerism makes a specific contribution by generating well-being for people and their communities.

Volunteers are motivated by values like those of justice, equality and freedom as expressed in the United Nations Charter. A society which supports and encourages different forms of volunteering is likely to be a society which also promotes the well-being of its citizens.

More than 1 billion people volunteer globally , the majority of them serving in their own countries. Many are in the forefront of efforts to improve the way they and their fellow citizens are governed and engaged. Moreover, volunteers are playing a vital role in making governments worldwide more accountable and responsive to their citizens.

They are working with governments and civil society to hold those in power to account and to represent the voices of those who are often left out of development decisions such as women, youth and marginalized groups. The end result is more inclusive –and ultimately more effective– development.

Volunteerism is a basic expression of human relationships. It is about people’s need to participate in their societies and to feel that they matter to others. We strongly believe that the social relationships intrinsic to volunteer work are critical to individual and community well-being. The ethos of volunteerism is infused with values such as solidarity, reciprocity, mutual trust, belonging and empowerment, all of which contribute significantly to quality of life.

Volunteerism and well-being

People the world over engage in volunteerism for a great variety of reasons: to help to eliminate poverty and to improve basic health and education, to provide safe water supply and adequate sanitation, to tackle environmental issues and climate change, to reduce the risk of disasters or to combat social exclusion and violent conflict. In all of these fields, volunteerism makes a specific contribution by generating well-being for people and their communities.

Volunteerism also forms the backbone of many national and international non-governmental organizations and other civil society organizations, as well as social and political movements. It is present in the public sector and is increasingly a feature of the private sector.

There is a widespread view today that gross domestic product (GDP) does not provide an adequate picture of a society because it does not account for the well-being of individuals and their communities. Nor does it include activities that have an economic value but that fall outside the market and therefore have not, traditionally, been reflected in national accounts.

Where mainstream economics fosters values of self-interest and competition to achieve maximum satisfaction, a focus on well-being finds greater reason to value compassion and cooperation, both core values of volunteerism. The discourse on quality of life and well-being, and its place in the evolving development paradigm, must recognize the solidarity and reciprocal values of volunteerism as part of the dynamics that enhance human wellbeing.

A healthy society is one in which importance is given to formal and informal relationships that facilitate interaction and engagement and thus engender a sense of belonging. It is also one in which there is broad participation by all sections of the population. Communities with these characteristics do better in moving forward to meet common aspirations.

Volunteers are more likely to develop civic skills, to attach more importance to serving the public interest as a personal life goal and to be more politically active. Thus, in going about their voluntary activities, individuals are also cultivating an outlook that contributes to a social environment that nurtures the well-being of all.

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Essay on Volunteering

Students are often asked to write an essay on Volunteering in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Volunteering

Introduction.

Volunteering is a selfless activity where individuals give their time and energy to help others. It’s a way to contribute to society without expecting any monetary rewards.

Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering has many benefits. It helps develop new skills, build strong relationships, and foster a sense of community. It also boosts self-esteem and happiness.

In conclusion, volunteering is a noble act that benefits both the individual and society. It’s a great way to make a positive difference in the world.

Also check:

• 10 Lines on Volunteering
• Advantages and Disadvantages of Volunteering

250 Words Essay on Volunteering

Volunteering, an altruistic activity where individuals or groups provide services for no financial gain, is a cornerstone of modern society. It is a means of promoting goodwill, fostering social cohesion, and enhancing personal development.

The Essence of Volunteering

Volunteering is not just about giving. It’s a two-way street, offering profound experiences that can change the way we view the world. It provides a sense of purpose, a chance to contribute to a cause we’re passionate about, and an opportunity to connect with diverse communities.

The Impact of Volunteering

The impact of volunteering extends beyond the individual, influencing societal structures. It can bridge the gap between different socio-economic groups, fostering understanding and empathy. In addition, it bolsters community resilience by promoting social integration and providing essential services.

Personal Growth through Volunteering

Volunteering also cultivates personal growth. It enhances skills, broadens perspectives, and fosters a sense of accomplishment. It can boost self-esteem, improve leadership abilities, and promote a sense of belonging, which are essential for mental well-being.

In conclusion, volunteering is an invaluable aspect of our society. It not only contributes to social cohesion and community resilience but also fosters personal growth and development. As we engage in volunteering, we become agents of change, shaping a more compassionate and understanding world.

500 Words Essay on Volunteering

Volunteering is a selfless act, where individuals invest their time, energy, and skills to assist others without expecting any monetary compensation. It is a powerful vehicle for delivering a significant impact in communities and societies. Volunteering can be seen as a journey of personal, professional, and social growth, and it has profound benefits not only for the recipients but also for the volunteers themselves.

Volunteering has a transformative effect on society. It fosters a sense of community, encourages social inclusion, and contributes to a healthier society. When individuals volunteer, they become active agents of change, addressing societal issues like poverty, illiteracy, and inequality. They contribute to the development of resilient communities by providing essential services, building capacities, and promoting social cohesion.

Personal Growth and Development

On a personal level, volunteering provides a platform for individuals to develop new skills, gain practical experience, and build a network of contacts. It helps in personal growth by enhancing self-confidence, fostering empathy, and promoting a sense of achievement. Volunteering can also be a stepping stone to new opportunities, offering a chance to explore different career paths and gain valuable work experience.

Volunteering and Mental Health

Volunteering has been proven to have significant mental health benefits. It provides a sense of purpose and helps combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. Engaging in volunteering activities can improve mood, reduce stress, and even contribute to a longer life. It is a form of social interaction that can help individuals feel connected to their community, thus improving their overall well-being.

Challenges in Volunteering

Despite the numerous benefits, volunteering is not without challenges. Issues such as lack of resources, inadequate training, and limited recognition can hinder the volunteering experience. It is essential for organizations to provide adequate support and resources to volunteers to ensure their efforts are productive and rewarding.

In conclusion, volunteering is a powerful and transformative act that benefits both the individual and society. It is a journey of self-discovery and growth, an opportunity to make a difference, and a platform to build stronger, more resilient communities. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, volunteering will continue to play a vital role in shaping a more inclusive, empathetic, and sustainable world. Despite the challenges, the benefits of volunteering far outweigh the obstacles, making it a worthwhile endeavor for all.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Volleyball
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Volunteering can help you make friends, learn new skills, advance your career, and even feel happier and healthier. Learn how to find the right volunteer opportunity for you.

With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, the benefits of volunteering can be enormous. Volunteering offers vital help to people in need, worthwhile causes, and the community, but the benefits can be even greater for you, the volunteer. The right match can help you to find friends, connect with the community, learn new skills, and even advance your career.

Giving to others can also help protect your mental and physical health. It can reduce stress, combat depression, keep you mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose. While it’s true that the more you volunteer, the more benefits you’ll experience, volunteering doesn’t have to involve a long-term commitment or take a huge amount of time out of your busy day. Giving in even simple ways can help those in need and improve your health and happiness.

Benefits of volunteering: 4 ways to feel healthier and happier

• Volunteering connects you to others.
• Volunteering is good for your mind and body.
• Volunteering can advance your career.
• Volunteering brings fun and fulfillment to your life.

One of the more well-known benefits of volunteering is the impact on the community. Volunteering allows you to connect to your community and make it a better place. Even helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference to the lives of people, animals, and organizations in need. And volunteering is a two-way street: It can benefit you and your family as much as the cause you choose to help. Dedicating your time as a volunteer helps you make new friends, expand your network, and boost your social skills.

Make new friends and contacts

One of the best ways to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships is to commit to a shared activity together. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, especially if you are new to an area. It strengthens your ties to the community and broadens your support network, exposing you to people with common interests, neighborhood resources, and fun and fulfilling activities.

Increase your social and relationship skills

While some people are naturally outgoing, others are shy and have a hard time meeting new people. Volunteering gives you the opportunity to practice and develop your social skills, since you are meeting regularly with a group of people with common interests. Once you have momentum, it’s easier to branch out and make more friends and contacts.

Volunteering as a family

Children watch everything you do. By giving back to the community, you’ll show them firsthand how volunteering makes a difference and how good it feels to help other people and animals and enact change. It’s also a valuable way for you to get to know organizations in the community and find resources and activities for your children and family.

Volunteering provides many benefits to both mental and physical health.

Volunteering helps counteract the effects of stress, anger, and anxiety. The social contact aspect of helping and working with others can have a profound effect on your overall psychological well-being. Nothing relieves stress better than a meaningful connection to another person. Working with pets and other animals has also been shown to improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety.

Volunteering combats depression. Volunteering keeps you in regular contact with others and helps you develop a solid support system, which in turn protects you against depression.

Volunteering makes you happy . By measuring hormones and brain activity, researchers have discovered that being helpful to others delivers immense pleasure. Human beings are hard-wired to give to others. The more we give, the happier we feel.

[Read: Cultivating Happiness]

Volunteering increases self-confidence. You are doing good for others and the community, which provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Your role as a volunteer can also give you a sense of pride and identity. And the better you feel about yourself, the more likely you are to have a positive view of your life and future goals.

Volunteering provides a sense of purpose. Older adults, especially those who have retired or lost a spouse, can find new meaning and direction in their lives by helping others. Whatever your age or life situation, volunteering can help take your mind off your own worries, keep you mentally stimulated, and add more zest to your life.

Volunteering helps you stay physically healthy. Studies have found that those who volunteer have a lower mortality rate than those who do not. Older volunteers tend to walk more, find it easier to cope with everyday tasks, are less likely to develop high blood pressure, and have better thinking skills. Volunteering can also lessen symptoms of chronic pain and reduce the risk of heart disease.

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I have limited mobility—can I still volunteer?

People with disabilities or chronic health conditions can still benefit greatly from volunteering. In fact, research has shown that adults with disabilities or health conditions ranging from hearing and vision loss to heart disease, diabetes or digestive disorders all show improvement after volunteering.

Whether due to a disability, a lack of transportation, or time constraints, many people choose to volunteer their time via phone or computer. In today’s digital age, many organizations need help with writing, graphic design, email, and other web-based tasks. Some organizations may require you to attend an initial training session or periodical meetings while others can be conducted completely remotely. In any volunteer situation, make sure that you are getting enough social contact, and that the organization is available to support you should you have questions.

If you’re considering a new career, volunteering can help you get experience in your area of interest and meet people in the field. Even if you’re not planning on changing careers, volunteering gives you the opportunity to practice important skills used in the workplace, such as teamwork, communication, problem solving, project planning, task management, and organization. You might feel more comfortable stretching your wings at work once you’ve honed these skills in a volunteer position first.

Teaching you valuable job skills

Just because volunteer work is unpaid does not mean the skills you learn are basic. Many volunteering opportunities provide extensive training. For example, you could become an experienced crisis counselor while volunteering for a women’s shelter or a knowledgeable art historian while donating your time as a museum docent.

[Read: Finding the Right Career]

Volunteering can also help you build upon skills you already have and use them to benefit the greater community. For instance, if you hold a successful sales position, you can raise awareness for your favorite cause as a volunteer advocate, while further developing and improving your public speaking, communication, and marketing skills.

Gaining career experience

Volunteering offers you the chance to try out a new career without making a long-term commitment. It is also a great way to gain experience in a new field. In some fields, you can volunteer directly at an organization that does the kind of work you’re interested in. For example, if you’re interested in nursing, you could volunteer at a hospital or a nursing home.

Your volunteer work might also expose you to professional organizations or internships that could benefit your career.

When it comes to volunteering, passion and positivity are the only requirements

While learning new skills can be beneficial to many, it’s not a requirement for a fulfilling volunteer experience. Bear in mind that the most valuable assets you can bring to any volunteer effort are compassion, an open mind, a willingness to pitch in wherever needed, and a positive attitude.

Volunteering is a fun and easy way to explore your interests and passions. Doing volunteer work you find meaningful and interesting can be a relaxing, energizing escape from your day-to-day routine of work, school, or family commitments. Volunteering also provides you with renewed creativity, motivation, and vision that can carry over into your personal and professional life.

[Read: Building Better Mental Health]

Many people volunteer in order to make time for hobbies outside of work as well. For instance, if you have a desk job and long to spend time outdoors, you might consider volunteering to help plant a community garden, walk dogs for an animal shelter, or help out at a children’s camp.

There are numerous volunteer opportunities available. The key is to find a position that you would enjoy and are capable of doing. It’s also important to make sure that your commitment matches the organization’s needs. Ask yourself the following:

• Would you like to work with adults, children, animals, or remotely from home?
• Do you prefer to work alone or as part of a team?
• Are you better behind the scenes or do you prefer to take a more visible role?
• How much time are you willing to commit?
• What skills can you bring to a volunteer job?
• What causes are important to you?

Consider your interests

You will have a richer and more enjoyable volunteering experience if you first take some time to identify your goals and interests. Think about why you want to volunteer. What would you enjoy doing? The opportunities that match both your goals and your interests are most likely to be fun and fulfilling.

What are your volunteering goals?

To find a volunteer position that’s right for you, look for something that matches your personality, skills, and interests. Ask yourself if there is something specific you want to do or achieve as a volunteer.

For example, you might want to:

• Improve your neighborhood.
• Meet new people with different outlooks or experiences.
• Try something new.
• Do something rewarding with your spare time.
• See new places or experience a different way of living.
• Try a new type of work that you might want to pursue as a full-time job.
• Expand on your interests and hobbies.

Consider several volunteer possibilities

Don’t limit yourself to just one organization or one specific type of job. Sometimes an opportunity looks great on paper, but the reality is quite different. Try to visit different organizations and get a feel for what they are like and if you click with other staff and volunteers.

Where to find volunteer opportunities

• Community theaters, museums, and monuments.
• Libraries or senior centers.
• Service organizations such as Lions Clubs or Rotary Clubs.
• Local animal shelters, rescue organizations, or wildlife centers.
• Youth organizations, sports teams, and after-school programs.
• Historical restorations, national parks, and conservation organizations.
• Places of worship such as churches or synagogues.
• Online directories and other resources (see below).

How much time should you volunteer?

Volunteering doesn’t have to take over your life to be beneficial. In fact, research shows that just two to three hours per week, or about 100 hours a year, can confer the most benefits—to both you and your chosen cause. The important thing is to volunteer only the amount of time that feels comfortable to you. Volunteering should feel like a fun and rewarding hobby, not another chore on your to-do list.

You’re donating your valuable time, so it’s important that you enjoy and benefit from your volunteering. To make sure that your volunteer position is a good fit:

Ask questions. You want to make sure that the experience is right for your skills, your goals, and the time you want to spend. Sample questions for your volunteer coordinator might address your time commitment, if there’s any training involved, who you will be working with, and what to do if you have questions during your experience.

Make sure you know what’s expected. You should be comfortable with the organization and understand the time commitment. Consider starting small so that you don’t over commit yourself at first. Give yourself some flexibility to change your focus if needed.

Don’t be afraid to make a change. Don’t force yourself into a bad fit or feel compelled to stick with a volunteer role you dislike. Talk to the organization about changing your focus or look for a different organization that’s a better fit.

If volunteering overseas, choose carefully. Some volunteer programs abroad can cause more harm than good if they take much-needed paying jobs away from local workers. Look for volunteer opportunities with reputable organizations.

Enjoy yourself. The best volunteer experiences benefit both the volunteer and the organization. If you’re not enjoying yourself, ask yourself why. Is it the tasks you’re performing? The people you’re working with? Or are you uncomfortable simply because the situation is new and unfamiliar? Pinpointing what’s bothering you can help you decide how to proceed.

VolunteerMatch  – Find opportunities that match your volunteer interests, from location to type of work. (VolunteerMatch)

Idealist  – Find volunteer opportunities in your local area or internationally. (Idealist)

National and Community Service  – Federal organization offering volunteer positions across the U.S. (National Service)

Volunteer  – Directory of environmental volunteer opportunities. (Volunteer.gov)

U.S. Peace Corps  – Offers volunteer opportunities overseas and includes a  50 Plus  division. (Peace Corps)

American Red Cross  – Volunteer in any of the Red Cross’s key service areas. (Red Cross)

More Information

• Simple Changes, Big Rewards - A Practical, Easy Guide for Healthy, Happy Living. (Harvard Medical School Special Health Report)
• The Health Benefits of Volunteering: Recent Research (PDF) - Research on the benefits of volunteering, especially for seniors. (Corporation for National and Community Service)
• The many ways volunteering is good for your heart - Includes resources for finding volunteer positions. (Harvard Health Publications)
• 10 Tips on Volunteering Wisely - Tips to make the most of your volunteering experience. (Network for Good)
• Carr, D. C., Kail, B. L., & Rowe, J. W. (2018). The Relation of Volunteering and Subsequent Changes in Physical Disability in Older Adults. The Journals of Gerontology: Series B , 73(3), 511–521. Link
• Kim, E. S., Whillans, A. V., Lee, M. T., Chen, Y., & VanderWeele, T. J. (2020). Volunteering and Subsequent Health and Well-Being in Older Adults: An Outcome-Wide Longitudinal Approach. American Journal of Preventive Medicine , 59(2), 176–186. Link
• Lawton, R. N., Gramatki, I., Watt, W., & Fujiwara, D. (2021). Does Volunteering Make Us Happier, or Are Happier People More Likely to Volunteer? Addressing the Problem of Reverse Causality When Estimating the Wellbeing Impacts of Volunteering. Journal of Happiness Studie , 22(2), 599–624. Link
• Okun, M. A., Yeung, E. W., & Brown, S. (2013). Volunteering by older adults and risk of mortality: A meta-analysis. Psychology and Aging , 28(2), 564–577. Link
• Salt, E., Crofford, L. J., & Segerstrom, S. (2017). The Mediating and Moderating Effect of Volunteering on Pain and Depression, Life Purpose, Well-Being, and Physical Activity. Pain Management Nursing , 18(4), 243–249. Link

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Volunteerism: My Experience by Nori

Noriof Syracuse's entry into Varsity Tutor's May 2018 scholarship contest

Volunteerism: My Experience by Nori - May 2018 Scholarship Essay

Community service has become a major aspect of my life that has shaped me into who I am today. Volunteering is a way that I can give back to the world that does so much for me. There is no one way to define community service, because everyone has their own definition. However, it is not the definition itself that matters; it is what community service means to you. Is it the laughter of the special needs children when I help them bounce on the trampoline at cheer practice? Is it the squeals of the recreational cheer team that I coached when they win a competition? Maybe it is the joy on the faces of the veterans when they win a round of bingo. To me, volunteering and community service are all of these things. Volunteerism is a donation of my time in order to enhance someone’s life, even if it is only slightly. I view volunteering as a window through which I have an opportunity to change the lives of people, as well as my own. However, volunteering is not only about aiding others. It offers so much more. Through volunteering, I learned valuable community and social skills, and well as gained valuable work experience. I learned how to work with children, the elderly, and those with special needs. In addition, I learned what it is like to have a job and responsibilities. Volunteering has played in a significant role in the shaping of who I am today. Community service has been a resource for me to express myself and gain control of my life. After my father passed and my mother suffered a major stroke, leaving her permanently impaired, I sought an outlet, or an escape. I desperately needed a positive activity to take my mind off of the hardships I was experiencing. That outlet was community service. After a visit to my mother in the hospital, I would go to the public library and volunteer with their children’s activities. Seeing the overwhelming smiles of children after reading them a story made me forget about my problems at home. Volunteering has always been a way to bring joy into my life and to make my day (as well as someone else’s) a little bit better! My first significant volunteer experience was coaching a special needs cheerleading team. As a special needs coach, I had to control a group of special needs children. They struggled to do many things on their own, and looked to me to lead them. It is from this experience that I learned to be a leader. I volunteered as their coach during my freshman year of high school, and that is when my leadership skills truly began to develop. I was responsible for instructing the team on cheerleading and ensuring that they did everything safely. When they would go out and compete, they would bring tears to my eyes. I have never met such an inspiring group of kids, and it is from them that I learned that no matter what comes in my way, anything is possible if you give it your best effort, and that all hardships can be overcome. Coaching Team FIRE was not always an easy job. There were many meltdowns and times when I would want to give up. However, the joy that lit up their faces when times were good motivated me to keep going. From them, I learned perseverance. They would be elated when they successfully completed a forward roll, or learned a new dance. Every day, with their joy, they would remind me to enjoy the small things in life, and I will forever appreciate the endless giggles we’ve shared. That team made me proud and made me recognize how lucky I am to be healthy and well. They taught me that someone is always in need of help, and with my help, that person can succeed. Community service made me realize that I wanted to participate in a profession that helped people. At first, I was unsure of what I aspired to be when I grew up, but I knew one thing: I wanted to make an impact in people’s lives. I developed a love of science, and asked myself how I could help people with science. I decided that my goal was to become a forensic chemist, so I could help solve crimes. That way, if a crime was inflicted upon someone or a loved one, those people would receive justice thanks to me. I truly feel as if volunteering has helped me recognize what it is I aspire to be in the future. In addition, I have goals of participating in more volunteer work throughout my life. Volunteering is a significant way to make the world a better place and to grow as a person. I have impacted numerous lives through volunteering, and that is something that I take great pride in. Whether it was reading to children at the library, helping veterans play bingo, giving Thanksgiving meals to the less fortunate, or anything else, I made someone’s day better, and that is an amazing feeling. In addition, I have developed numerous skills through volunteer work. I feel as if I have grown significantly through my community service. Community service has shaped me into a responsible leader. I am grateful for all that volunteering has done for me.

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Volunteer Programs in Moscow, Russia

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A Guide to Volunteer Programs in Moscow, Russia

Moscow is one of the largest and most influential cities in all of Europe, and has been at the center of much of the continent’s recent historical developments. Yet like any megacity, Moscow has its fair share of urban problems too. It is one of the most expensive cities in the world, which makes it hard for many of the city’s less fortunate citizens to get by. Volunteering in Moscow is your opportunity to experience life in one of the world’s most impressive cities while giving back your time to help make it a more livable place for all.

Volunteering in Moscow

Many volunteer projects in Moscow are devoted to working with the city’s overlooked population who often live in poverty. Placements working with the elderly , disabled , and war veterans , for example, are all common to find in Moscow, giving you a great opportunity to interact with minority segments of the local population. You can also find work in soup kitchens and orphanages around the city, spending time further caring for and serving the needy.

Volunteer teaching placements are also quite popular in Moscow, as the need for native English speaking educators is increasing with the rate of globalization. You can teach English at all levels, working with either adults or children in a variety of settings. In addition, other youth development placements such as volunteering at summer camps , community centers , or in childcare are readily available too.

Many volunteer abroad programs in Moscow will offer you Russian language courses as part of the experience, since you will likely be interacting with many locals who do not speak English well. Volunteer placements in Moscow tend to last a minimum of two weeks or up to one full year , depending your availability and flexibility. Programs are offered year-round, though most volunteers choose to go in the summertime because winters in Moscow can be extremely cold!

Life in Moscow

With over 12 million inhabitants, Russia’s capital is truly a spectacle to behold.  From Saint Basil’s Cathedral to the Kremlin to the Ostankino tower, the architecture and historical life of this city will not fail to breathe wonder into the volunteer abroad.

Moscow may be a huge city, but you will have no problem getting around. The local metro system is the fourth largest in the world, and boasts close to 200 stops located around the metropolitan area. Moscow is also a major transportation hub, making travel to nearby cities such as St. Petersburg a breeze by train.

Undoubtedly the most challenging part about moving to Moscow for many is the long, frigid winters. Moscow is the coldest big city on earth, with average temperatures during winter settling around 20°F. If you are volunteering year-round, safe to say you will want to bring a winter coat.

Most organizations will not require you to know Russian in order to volunteer abroad in Moscow, but speaking at least a little bit of the language will help you a tremendous amount in everyday life outside your volunteer project. Not only will you save yourself a whole lot of time and confusion, but you will be able to interact with locals on a more genuine level too!

Costs & Affordability

Moscow, as it were, is one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in (all the more reason why volunteers are needed to help alleviate the burdens of poverty). It will not be a cheap trip, but chances are that your volunteer abroad program may help cover the costs by offering room and board and in return for your services. Different programs vary significantly in their expenses, so take some time researching which is the best fit for you (and your wallet).

Accommodation & Visas

Housing is expensive and hard to come by in Moscow, so many volunteers abroad opt to live in a homestay with a local host family. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself intimately in the Russian culture, and will help ease your transition smoothly into life in Moscow.

You will likely need to apply for a visa before volunteering abroad in Moscow, though the specific type will vary depending on your program duration and your home country. Talk to your volunteer program about what type of visa you will need, and also check out our Embassy Directory for more information from your local Russian consulate.

GoAbroad Insider Tips

Make a Difference. Volunteering in Moscow you will be working hand in hand with locals to help better the lives of the city’s less fortunate. It is a rare opportunity to experience life in one of the world’s most unique and important cities while also contributing something back.

Learn Russian. Russian is one of the most highly sought-after languages by employers, and being adept in the language will make you a very intriguing candidate for jobs of all types. Make the effort to learn as much as you can while volunteering abroad in Moscow!

Expand your Horizons. Russian culture is as vast and impressive as the geography of the country itself, and safe to say you will take a lot away from immersing yourself in Moscow city life. You will also meet and make friends from not only Russia, but from all over the world.

Read our comprehensive guide on volunteering abroad in Russia .

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Take This Dance Class and Call Me in the Morning

Prescriptions for social activities, exercise and the arts — first popularized in Britain — are coming to America. But some experts say the U.S. health care system may get in the way.

By Christina Caron

Last spring, Tia Washington, 52, a mother of three in Dublin, Calif., received a stern warning from her doctor: If she didn’t quickly gain control of her high blood pressure, she was likely to end up in the emergency room.

Listen to this article with reporter commentary

He wrote a prescription for blood pressure medication and urged her to see a health coach, too. Ms. Washington reluctantly agreed.

“I didn’t want to die,” she said.

To her surprise, the health coach wanted to talk about more than vital signs. Ms. Washington found herself opening up about how she disliked doctors (and medications). How she tended to address the needs of work or family before her own. How her job had created “tremendous stress.”

Together, they decided that Ms. Washington would attend two weekly movement classes, check in regularly with a nurse practitioner and receive free fruits and vegetables from a “food as medicine” government program.

By the end of the conversation with the health coach, Ms. Washington said, the message was clear: “Tia, pay attention to yourself. You exist.”

Ms. Washington’s experience is just one example of how a practice called social prescribing is being explored in the United States, after being adopted in more than 20 other countries . The term “social prescription” was first popularized in Britain after it had been practiced there in various forms for decades. While there isn’t one universally accepted definition, social prescriptions generally aim to improve health and well-being by connecting people with nonclinical activities that address underlying problems , such as isolation, social stress and lack of nutritious food, which have been shown to play a crucial role in influencing who stays well and for how long.

For Ms. Washington, who is among thousands of patients who have received social prescriptions from the nonprofit Open Source Wellness , the experience was transformative. She found a less stressful job, began eating more healthfully and learned simple ways to move more during the day. About a year later, she was able to stop taking blood pressure medication entirely.

Elsewhere in the United States, similar programs are underway: At the Cleveland Clinic, doctors are prescribing nature walks, volunteering and ballroom dancing to geriatric patients. In Newark, an insurance provider has teamed up with the New Jersey Performing Arts Center to offer patients glassblowing workshops, concerts and museum exhibitions. A nonprofit in Utah is connecting mental health patients with community gardens and helping them participate in other activities that bring them a sense of meaning. And universities have started referring students to arts and cultural activities like comedy shows and concerts as part of their mental health initiatives.

The approach has also drawn the attention of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York ’s community development team, which will bring together experts over the course of the next year to discuss how social prescriptions can help improve well-being in low-income neighborhoods.

The process of making referrals is not new among community health professionals and social workers. Social prescribing differs by providing a kind of accountability coach, referred to as a link worker in Britain , who assesses the needs and interests of clients and then connects them to local organizations including volunteer groups and cultural institutions.

In recent years, the English national health care system has employed 1,000 new link workers, with the goal of making social prescribing available to 900,000 people by 2024. But putting such a plan in place in the United States, which does not have a socialized health care system, would be far more complicated, experts say.

“There’s reason to be skeptical about how far this will go,” said Daniel Eisenberg, a professor of health policy and management at the Fielding School of Public Health at the University of California, Los Angeles. “Our health care system tends to make only very incremental changes, and I think all the biases built into the system favor medical care and more acute intensive care.”

If social prescriptions can help keep people out of the emergency room for routine complaints, which could save billions of dollars , this may provide additional incentive for health insurance providers to help cover the costs, experts say.

Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, New Jersey’s largest health insurer, is participating in a study examining whether an arts prescription program will improve patients’ quality of life and reduce health disparities. Further down the road, the company will find out whether the prescriptions can also save money by lessening patients’ reliance on the E.R. for ordinary health care needs. While earlier research on social prescribing suggests that it can improve mental health and quality of life and that it might reduce doctor visits and hospital admissions , many of the studies have been small, reliant on patients’ self-reporting and done without a control group.

The potential benefits have made social prescription “a really hot topic,” said Jill Sonke, the research director at the University of Florida’s Center for Arts in Medicine. She is working with British researchers to identify all of the social prescription programs in the United States — the number now tops 30 — and learn what worked and what didn’t.

The programs are not a panacea, Dr. Sonke said, and there are many possible pitfalls to enacting them on a wider scale in America. If social prescriptions are not accessible to people who are uninsured or underinsured, for example, or if people don’t feel welcome at the places they’re being referred to, then “the system isn’t doing what it’s intended to do,” she said. “It really is about everyone having access to wellness and prevention,” she added.

In January, Stanford University and Rutgers University-Newark began prescribing arts and cultural activities to students as an expansion of the schools’ mental health services. At Rutgers, students can attend cultural events in Newark at no cost, via a partnership with the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. At Stanford , the students are referred to campus events like concerts, art exhibitions or specialized classes, and prescriptions are managed by Art Pharmacy, a start-up in Atlanta that also provides arts prescriptions in Georgia and Massachusetts.

At both schools, any student, including those without mental health issues, can seek a referral from a trained staff member . Student leaders at Rutgers can also make referrals.

Kristi Maisha, a Stanford graduate student who studies civil engineering, said she decided to participate because she wanted to take a moment away from the intensity of her academic schedule.

“It is not very beneficial to stay in that head space all the time,” she said. “So I was definitely looking for something that would kind of break me out of that.”

Ms. Maisha chose to attend an improvisational dance class led by a choreographer — though she showed up with some trepidation. “What am I doing?” she thought as the class began.

But she followed the instructor’s lead, contorting her torso and limbs, and even her face, into new shapes — leading with her body instead of her brain. The class became symbolic of simply living in the moment, she said, and she felt freed from the “planned out, predetermined thoughts” that often confined her. “Now that I know that it’s actually quite a good time, I’m more likely to do it, regardless of them prescribing it or not,” she said.

Read by Christina Caron

Audio produced by Kate Winslett .

Christina Caron is a Times reporter covering mental health. More about Christina Caron

Let Us Help You Pick Your Next Workout

Looking for a new way to get moving we have plenty of options..

VO2 max has become ubiquitous in fitness circles. But what does it measure  and how important is it to know yours?

Rising pollen counts make outdoor workouts uncomfortable and can affect performance. Here are five strategies  for breathing easier.

Physical activity improves cognitive and mental health in all sorts of ways. Here’s why, and how to reap the benefits .

To develop a sustainable exercise habit, experts say it helps to tie your workout to something or someone .

Does it really matter how many steps you take each day? The quality of the steps you take might be just as important as the amount .

Is your workout really working for you? Take our quiz to find out .

Pick the Right Equipment With Wirecutter’s Recommendations

Want to build a home gym? These five things can help you transform your space  into a fitness center.

Transform your upper-body workouts with a simple pull-up bar  and an adjustable dumbbell set .

Choosing the best  running shoes  and running gear can be tricky. These tips  make the process easier.

A comfortable sports bra can improve your overall workout experience. These are the best on the market .

Few things are more annoying than ill-fitting, hard-to-use headphones. Here are the best ones for the gym  and for runners .

Humane Society  of the Palouse

"helping those who cannot help themselves.".

The Humane Society is always happy to have volunteers come out and help care for our animals. The animals like new faces as well.

Are you interested in Volunteering?  Please contact HSoP and schedule your first shift!  Due to limited space, HSoP can only accommodate so many volunteers at one time. 

Volunteer Hours are available Monday through Friday from 2:00-5:00. We can schedule up to three volunteers at a time. 

Sign up for your shift today! 

Contact HSoP by phone at (208) 883-1166 or through email at

[email protected]

Do you have questions about volunteering with us? Click here to visit our Volunteering FAQs !

Junior Volunteers

Additional Guidelines for Younger Volunteers

You must be at least 12 years old to be a junior volunteer. During their first volunteering shift, junior volunteers must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to go over rules, sign the application, and ensure their child understands the process. 

After the initial supervised shift, junior volunteers can volunteer alone for up to one hour per day.  Junior volunteers are not allowed in the dog kennels without their parent or guardian. 

There is a 3-strikes rule!  If we have to remind you about following these rules three times, you will not be allowed to return to volunteer without a parent.

HSoP cannot accommodate volunteers under the age of 12 at this time. 

***Junior Volunteers can socialize with animals that are already accustomed to younger people.  If an animal is not comfortable or socialized with children, you will not be allowed to interact with them.***

Dog Walking

Our dogs love getting to go on walks! These mini adventures offer a fun break from the shelter environment, and give our pups a chance to practice their leash skills before going home. If you'd like to help our pups get some relaxing walks in, we would love to have your help!

If you haven't already, be sure to fill out and submit a volunteer application. 

Next, fill out and submit the dog walking form above. Be sure to carefully read all guidelines. 

Just like that, you're all set to walk some dogs! We will ask to hold onto your ID while you're out. 

***Junior volunteers cannot walk dogs by themselves. If they are accompanied by an adult parent or guardian, then the junior volunteer can accompany the adult for the walk, but may not control the leash.***

Group Volunteering

Thank you for considering HSoP as the beneficiary of your groups’ philanthropy! Due to space restrictions at HSoP, we are unable to accommodate large groups of volunteers on site.  However, groups can do a lot for the animals currently at HSoP by organizing fundraisers, pet food drives, or pet supply collections for the homeless animals of Latah County.

While we aren’t able to accommodate groups at our shelter, your group efforts can still make a huge difference to the homeless animals found within your community.

After your group has organized a fundraiser, supported a pet food drive for our Pet Food Pantry, or done a supply collection, a tour is a wonderful way to top off the experience!  This is a great way for your group to see exactly how your efforts have benefited your pet community.

To schedule a group tour, or for fun ideas for group projects, please contact us by phone at  (208)883-1166 or through email at  [email protected] .

Fun ideas for how groups can help:

Volunteering at HSoP events

Supply donation drives

Pet food drives

Making dog toys

Making dog treats

Making cat treats

Making cat toys

Making blankets for our kitties!

Our cats and kittens love to lie on handmade blankets. You can knit, crochet, or tie blanks out of fleece. The recommended measurement is about 18-20” x 18-20” when you’re finished.

Court-Mandated Community Service

Thank you for your interest in serving your mandated community service hours at the Humane Society of the Palouse. Individuals seeking to fulfill community service requirements do not participate in the volunteer program: they complete projects and tasks that do not involve any contact with the animals or the clients at the shelter.

Community Service Volunteers must read the guidelines, complete information profile, and sign the code of conduct/waiver in order to get started. Please note that the Humane Society of the Palouse reserves the right to refuse a Community Service Volunteer for any reason.

Community Service Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older.

Volunteers must schedule in advance

Time slots available are from 9:30 am – 12:00 pm, Monday – Saturday

To sign up, please contact HSoP by phone at (208) 883-1166

HSoP reserves the right to turn away any Community Service Volunteers who do not show up on time, and to ask Community Service Volunteers to leave early if there is not enough work available.

Shifts are filled on a first come, first serve basis and HSoP can only accommodate 1 volunteer per day.

Duties may include laundry, dishes, sorting donations, cleaning, and more.

Dress Protocol

To prevent slipping, exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals, and injuries, all Community Service Volunteers must wear flat, enclosed rubber-sole shoes at all times.

All Community Service Volunteers must not wear thong sandals, flip flops, or any shoe with an open toe, torn clothing, cut-off shorts, T-shirts with controversial or offensive messages, halter tops, backless shirts, half-shirts, muscle shirts, tank tops, dangling earrings, or other jewelry that may interfere with volunteer duties.

DIY Volunteering Ideas

Are you interested in helping HSoP but are unable to come into HSoP during our hours of operation? 

This page has ideas for how you can still help homeless animals.  Did you know that providing homeless dogs and cats with toys is very important for their well-being?  The ideas on this page can help you make some very special critters their own toys that are theirs to keep both at HSoP and in their new home.  

Do you have a large group that would like to help HSoP? 

These ideas are great for a large group to do together and then bring into HSoP.  Under each idea, you will find how many volunteer hours you can receive for donating these DIY items. 

Stuffed Monkey’s Fist Knot:

1 hour awarded per every 2 toys.

Click here  for instructions.

No-Sew Fleece Blankets:

1 hour awarded per every 2 blankets.

Click here   for instructions.

Fleece Dog & Cat Toy:

1 hour awarded per every 5 toys.

Flirt Pole:

Ball & Tug Dog Toy

Check out this fun PDF for even more ideas on DIY dog and cat toys!

• Does HSoP euthanize animals? The Humane Society of the Palouse is a low/no-kill shelter. HSoP will not euthanize adoptable animals due to space. We’ve stayed true to our mission for 45 years and are committed to preserving and nurturing the lives of all the rescued animals in our care. We reserve humane euthanasia only in instances when animals are suffering greatly with no potential for relief, or if an animal is so aggressive that he or she presents a danger to people or other animals and cannot be safely handled or placed. The decision to euthanize is never made lightly and done only with the best interest of the animal in mind. HSoP is committed to providing all of the animals we rescue with the individualized and compassionate care they need and deserve until they are adopted by responsible, loving people.
• How many canines does HSoP help per year? Each year HSoP provides temporary housing for anywhere from 200-300 dogs.
• How many dogs are returned to their owner, and how many are adopted out per year? For stray dogs that are found within Moscow city limits, HSoP on average will be able to reunite 60% with their owners and 40% will remain in shelter care until adopted. Whereas stray dogs that are found outside of Moscow city limits, HSoP on average will be able to reunite 40% with their owners and 60% will remain in shelter care until adopted. We strongly encourage all pet owners to equip their pets with accurate ID to increase the likelihood of them coming home if they ever get lost. We encourage microchip ID for all pets, and strongly recommend a collar with an ID tag containing the owner's contact number.
• How many felines does HSoP help per year? Each year HSoP provides temporary housing for anywhere from 200-300 cats. HSoP generally has more cats than dogs
• How many cats are returned to their owner, and how many are adopted out per year? For stray cats that are found within Moscow city limits, HSoP on average will be able to reunite 10% with their owners and 90% will remain in shelter care until adopted. Whereas stray cats that are found outside of Moscow city limits, HSoP on average will be able to reunite 1% with their owners and 99% will remain in shelter care until adopted. We strongly encourage all pet owners to equip their pets with accurate ID to increase the likelihood of them coming home if they ever get lost. We encourage microchip ID for all pets, and strongly recommend a collar with an ID tag containing the owner's contact number. Cats should wear breakaway collars if possible.
• How is HSoP funded? For a more detailed view of HSoP finances, visit our Financial Transparency page.
• How much funding needs to be donated or raised by HSoP to make up the 35% and 8% of the annual budget? Each year, HSoP has to raise over $80,000 through donations and fundraising just to keep our doors open. ​ This is why any size donation is greatly appreciated. Without the generous and continued support of our pet community, HSoP would not be able to do what we do. Donate today!
• Is the Humane Society of the Palouse part of the Humane Society of the United States? No. HSoP has no affiliation with HSUS or the ASPCA. Though we do look to the national animal welfare organizations to stay current with best practices, we do not receive funding nor are we affiliated with them. HSoP does apply for grants through these large national organizations, however HSoP does not receive annual funding from the HSUS or ASPCA.
• Who is involved with HSoP? City of Moscow, Chief of Police City of Moscow owns the building and pays for utilities and make up 22% of HSoP yearly budget. Latah county provides 10% of HSoPs’ yearly budget. HSoP presents to the County Commissioners every year to request funding. HSoP Voluntary Board of Directors 14 members who bring a variety of expertise to the organization. HSoP has a full time staff of 5 that include: Shelter Director Animal Care Attendants Public Relations Manager Countless Volunteers
• Does the Humane Society of the Palouse pick up stray animals? The Humane Society does not pick up animals. Stray dogs found within Moscow city limits can be reported to the Animal Control Officer by calling (208)882-2677. If a stray dog is found in Latah County, citizens can call the Latah County Sheriff’s office at (208)882-2216 for assistance, but do so knowing there is no animal control for Latah County. There is no animal control for stray cats.
• Where does HSoP list stray or impounded animals? HSoP lists all stray or unclaimed animals on our Facebook page. To see the most recent stray and impounded animals, please visit our Facebook page through this link: Humane Society of the Palouse | Facebook
• If my pet is missing, could it be at the animal shelter? Hundreds of companion animals come into the shelter every year from Latah County. If your pet is missing, it is important that you contact the shelter as soon as possible so that a missing pet report can be completed and shelter staff can be notified to look for your pet. It is also important that you visit the shelter in-person and look for your pet on a regular basis. Please remember that it is the responsibility of the pet owner to search for their missing pet; however, HSoP will do everything possible to assist you in doing so. We also encourage posting a photo, description and information about where your pet went missing from as well as when to local lost and found groups on Facebook.
• What happens if my pet is brought to the shelter? If your pet is not readily identifiable by tag or microchip, your pet will be held for a stray holding period. Dogs found in the City of Moscow have a 10-day holding period. Dogs found outside of Moscow but within Latah County have a 6-day holding period. Cats found anywhere within Moscow or Latah County have a 6-day holding period. The Shelter will make every effort to contact you regarding your pet during this time. Reclaim fees apply in each situation and must be paid prior to reclaiming your pet. Unclaimed pets become the property of HSoP following the end of a stray holding period. Once this happens, they start the process of becoming ready for adoption. Please ensure that all of your pets have accurate ID to increase the chance of being reunited with them if they ever get lost.
• What does it cost to reclaim my pet from the shelter? Pet owners are charged an impound fee of $20.00. To reclaim a dog that lives within Moscow city limits, if the dog is not already licensed with the city, the purchase of a lifetime license is mandatory. The license is $25.00 for altered dogs and $35.00 for intact dogs. Boarding fees of $10.00 per day are charged for each day of impound after the initial twenty-four hours of arrival at the Shelter
• Do I have to have my pet spayed or neutered? Spaying or neutering is not required for reclaimed pets, although we encourage responsible sterilization of pets and offer assistance through S.N.A.P. Spaying or neutering your pets can prevent unwanted litters and even prevent some cancers in your beloved cat or dog. There are already so many homeless cats and dogs at the shelter, we don't need anymore! If you are in need of assistance having your pet spayed or neutered, please apply for our Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP).
• If I witness what I believe to be an act of animal cruelty, who do I call? Humane Society of the Palouse encourages the public to IMMEDIATELY report acts of animal cruelty or neglect to Animal Control by calling (208) 882-2677 if occurring within Moscow city limits, and (208) 882-2216 if occurring in Latah County. HSoP does not have the ability to report cruelty or neglect secondhand. If we are contacted about situations of this kind, we will direct them to contact local law enforcement.
• Does HSoP offer veterinary services to the pulbic? Though we would love to offer spaying/neutering and vaccination services to our local pet community, HSoP does not have the ability or facilities to do so at this time. HSoP does offer assistance through our Spay/Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP), and microchipping services. For a list of local veterinary services, please view the Veterinary Services resource page in the HSoP Resource Library.
• Does it cost money to surrender an owned animal? Yes. HSoP does ask for a small donation to help provide care for owned pets that have been surrendered. Please visit our Owner Surrender page to learn more.
• How old do I have to be to visit the shelter? Anyone is welcome to visit the shelter during our open hours! We do have some restrictions about who can see and interact with shelter pets: - You must be at least 18 years old to enter our dog kennels or to interact with our adoptable dogs without a parent or guardian present. - You must be at least 18 years old to interact with our adoptable cats without a parent or guardian present (unless you're working a junior volunteer shift). - Those 17 and under are welcome to visit the shelter and interact will all of our adoptable pets, so long as they're accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18.
• I'm going on vacation, can you board my pet? No. At this time HSoP does not offer boarding services for pets. There are several boarding facilities throughout Latah County and most vet clinics will also board. For a list of local boarding services, please view our Pet Boarding Services resource sheet in the HSoP Resource Library.
• I found a wild animal hurt in my yard, what should I do? HSoP is not equipped care for wildlife. If you've found an injured or orphaned wild bird or animal, please call Palouse Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation at (208) 614-2273. For more information, please visit their website: Palouse Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation
• I found a feral cat, what do I do? HSoP does not have the ability to provide care for feral cats within our facility. We do have a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program for feral cats living on owned property in Latah County. The program intends to reduce feline infectious diseases and homeless cat births in our region, by providing feral cats with vaccines, spay/neuter surgeries, and ear-tips for identification.
• Why can’t I bring my animal to the Humane Society of the Palouse if I live outside of Latah County? HSoP does not euthanize to make space. We do not have the capacity, space, or manpower to receive animals from outside of the agreed jurisdiction we have with the City of Moscow and Latah County. We recommend contacting the shelter that services your county and they may be able to help.

Volunteering FAQs

Women in AI: Allison Cohen on building responsible AI projects

To give AI-focused women academics and others their well-deserved — and overdue — time in the spotlight, TechCrunch has been publishing a series of interviews focused on remarkable women who’ve contributed to the AI revolution. We’re publishing these pieces throughout the year as the AI boom continues, highlighting key work that often goes unrecognized. Read more profiles here .

In the spotlight today: Allison Cohen, the senior applied AI projects manager at Mila, a Quebec-based community of more than 1,200 researchers specializing in AI and machine learning. She works with researchers, social scientists and external partners to deploy socially beneficial AI projects. Cohen’s portfolio of work includes a tool that detects misogyny, an app to identify online activity from suspected human trafficking victims, and an agricultural app to recommend sustainable farming practices in Rwanda.

Previously, Cohen was a co-lead on AI drug discovery at the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence, an organization to guide the responsible development and use of AI. She’s also served as an AI strategy consultant at Deloitte and a project consultant at the Center for International Digital Policy, an independent Canadian think tank.

Briefly, how did you get your start in AI? What attracted you to the field?

The realization that we could mathematically model everything from recognizing faces to negotiating trade deals changed the way I saw the world, which is what made AI so compelling to me. Ironically, now that I work in AI, I see that we can’t — and in many cases shouldn’t — be capturing these kinds of phenomena with algorithms.

I was exposed to the field while I was completing a master’s in global affairs at the University of Toronto. The program was designed to teach students to navigate the systems affecting the world order — everything from macroeconomics to international law to human psychology. As I learned more about AI, though, I recognized how vital it would become to world politics, and how important it was to educate myself on the topic.

What allowed me to break into the field was an essay-writing competition. For the competition, I wrote a paper describing how psychedelic drugs would help humans stay competitive in a labor market riddled with AI, which qualified me to attend the St. Gallen Symposium in 2018 (it was a creative writing piece). My invitation, and subsequent participation in that event, gave me the confidence to continue pursuing my interest in the field.

What work are you most proud of in the AI field?

One of the projects I managed involved building a dataset containing instances of subtle and overt expressions of bias against women.

For this project, staffing and managing a multidisciplinary team of natural language processing experts, linguists and gender studies specialists throughout the entire project life cycle was crucial. It’s something that I’m quite proud of. I learned firsthand why this process is fundamental to building responsible applications, and also why it’s not done enough — it’s hard work! If you can support each of these stakeholders in communicating effectively across disciplines, you can facilitate work that blends decades-long traditions from the social sciences and cutting-edge developments in computer science.

I’m also proud that this project was well received by the community. One of our papers got a spotlight recognition in the socially responsible language modeling workshop at one of the leading AI conferences, NeurIPS. Also, this work inspired a similar interdisciplinary process that was managed by AI Sweden , which adapted the work to fit Swedish notions and expressions of misogyny.

How do you navigate the challenges of the male-dominated tech industry and, by extension, the male-dominated AI industry?

It’s unfortunate that in such a cutting-edge industry, we’re still seeing problematic gender dynamics. It’s not just adversely affecting women — all of us are losing. I’ve been quite inspired by a concept called “feminist standpoint theory” that I learned about in Sasha Costanza-Chock’s book, “Design Justice.” \

The theory claims that marginalized communities, whose knowledge and experiences don’t benefit from the same privileges as others, have an awareness of the world that can bring about fair and inclusive change. Of course, not all marginalized communities are the same, and neither are the experiences of individuals within those communities.

That said, a variety of perspectives from those groups are critical in helping us navigate, challenge and dismantle all kinds of structural challenges and inequities. That’s why a failure to include women can keep the field of AI exclusionary for an even wider swath of the population, reinforcing power dynamics outside of the field as well.

In terms of how I’ve handled a male-dominated industry, I’ve found allies to be quite important. These allies are a product of strong and trusting relationships. For example, I’ve been very fortunate to have friends like Peter Kurzwelly, who’s shared his expertise in podcasting to support me in the creation of a female-led and -centered podcast called “The World We’re Building.” This podcast allows us to elevate the work of even more women and non-binary people in the field of AI.

What advice would you give to women seeking to enter the AI field?

Find an open door. It doesn’t have to be paid, it doesn’t have to be a career and it doesn’t even have to be aligned with your background or experience. If you can find an opening, you can use it to hone your voice in the space and build from there. If you’re volunteering, give it your all — it’ll allow you to stand out and hopefully get paid for your work as soon as possible.

Of course, there’s privilege in being able to volunteer, which I also want to acknowledge.

When I lost my job during the pandemic and unemployment was at an all-time high in Canada, very few companies were looking to hire AI talent, and those that were hiring weren’t looking for global affairs students with eight months’ experience in consulting. While applying for jobs, I began volunteering with an AI ethics organization.

One of the projects I worked on while volunteering was about whether there should be copyright protection for art produced by AI. I reached out to a lawyer at a Canadian AI law firm to better understand the space. She connected me with someone at CIFAR , who connected me with Benjamin Prud’homme, the executive director of Mila’s AI for Humanity Team. It’s amazing to think that through a series of exchanges about AI art, I learned about a career opportunity that has since transformed my life.

What are some of the most pressing issues facing AI as it evolves?

I have three answers to this question that are somewhat interconnected. I think we need to figure out:

• How to reconcile the fact that AI is built to be scaled while ensuring that the tools we’re building are adapted to fit local knowledge, experience and needs.
• If we’re to build tools that are adapted to the local context, we’re going to need to incorporate anthropologists and sociologists into the AI design process. But there are a plethora of incentive structures and other obstacles preventing meaningful interdisciplinary collaboration. How can we overcome this?
• How can we affect the design process even more profoundly than simply incorporating multidisciplinary expertise? Specifically, how can we alter the incentives such that we’re designing tools built for those who need it most urgently rather than those whose data or business is most profitable?

What are some issues AI users should be aware of?

Labor exploitation is one of the issues that I don’t think gets enough coverage. There are many AI models that learn from labeled data using supervised learning methods. When the model relies on labeled data, there are people that have to do this tagging (i.e., someone adds the label “cat” to an image of a cat). These people (annotators) are often the subjects of exploitative practices. For models that don’t require the data to be labeled during the training process (as is the case with some generative AI and other foundation models), datasets can still be built exploitatively in that the developers often don’t obtain consent nor provide compensation or credit to the data creators.

I would recommend checking out the work of Krystal Kauffman, who I was so glad to see featured in this TechCrunch series. She’s making headway in advocating for annotators’ labor rights, including a living wage, the end to “mass rejection” practices, and engagement practices that align with fundamental human rights (in response to developments like intrusive surveillance).

What is the best way to responsibly build AI?

Folks often look to ethical AI principles in order to claim that their technology is responsible. Unfortunately, ethical reflection can only begin after a number of decisions have already been made, including but not limited to:

• What are you building?
• How are you building it?
• How will it be deployed?

If you wait until after these decisions have been made, you’ll have missed countless opportunities to build responsible technology.

In my experience, the best way to build responsible AI is to be cognizant of — from the earliest stages of your process — how your problem is defined and whose interests it satisfies; how the orientation supports or challenges pre-existing power dynamics; and which communities will be empowered or disempowered through the AI’s use.

If you want to create meaningful solutions, you must navigate these systems of power thoughtfully.

How can investors better push for responsible AI?

Ask about the team’s values. If the values are defined, at least, in part, by the local community and there’s a degree of accountability to that community, it’s more likely that the team will incorporate responsible practices.

I'm a Democrat who moved to Florida to be closer to my boyfriend. I was nervous about the politics and weather but have been most dismayed by the cost of living.

• David Maughan, 32, moved from Richmond, Virginia, to Oakland Park, Florida, last year.
• As a progressive, Maughan said he was nervous about Florida's culture war politics.
• But he's found Floridians to be accepting and welcoming, especially in the LGBTQ+ community.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with David Maughan, a 32-year-old human resource analyst who moved from Richmond, Virginia, to Oakland Park, Florida, in August 2023 to be closer to his boyfriend. He shared his thoughts about living in the Sunshine State with Business Insider.

David : My Florida story started in 2020 when I met a guy named Brandon. We met online, like a lot of relationships nowadays, especially during early COVID. He lived in South Florida.

I was born and raised in Central Pennsylvania but had been living in Richmond, Virginia, since I was about 25.

Brandon and I dated casually for a couple of months and then became official. We were long-distance, going back and forth between Virginia and Florida for about three years. We knew we wanted to be together in the same place, so it became a question of which one of us would move. I work remotely, so it was easier for me to make the move.

I had a lot of concerns about moving to Florida

First of all, it was a big move away from my entire support system. I'm part of the LGBTQ+ community and that was something I felt was really strong in Richmond.

Thinking about starting over and making new friends in your 30s is daunting. I knew I would be with my boyfriend, and I had met a lot of his friends, so there would be a built-in friendship circle to some extent, but I still wanted to make my own friends.

But my top two concerns were the state politics and the weather. Many of my Richmond friends understood the first but didn't get my concerns about the weather. Everyone says the weather in Florida is great, but they don't realize that Florida is hot hot . In the summer, it's 90 to 95 degrees every day. It's exhausting. You don't want to go outside. Some people love that. But for me, it was a huge concern.

The other primary concern I had was politics. I consider myself a progressive and a Democrat. I call myself a pragmatic progressive. In Richmond, I had been very involved in volunteering for local Democratic campaigns. It's more than just a hobby for me; it's something I'm really passionate about.

Everyone in progressive circles looks at Florida in horror because of what the governor , state legislature, and state Supreme Court do. They've pushed really far-right policies, from gerrymandering congressional districts to passing a six-week abortion ban . These are not acceptable policies to me.

My boyfriend and I had a lot of conversations about those concerns before the move. He has a little saying: Florida is trash, but it's my trash. And I understand, he's lived here a long time.

I made the move in August 2023.

I moved to Oakland Park, which is a suburb of Fort Lauderdale. Oakland Park is small population-wise, but the surrounding Broward County has almost 2 million people. So, it's a much bigger metro area than I was used to.

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Overall, it's a comfortable place to live. But it's been a bit of a mixed bag for me so far. I love the community I've been able to find here. I found an LGBTQ+ adult sports league to participate in, and the nightlife nearby is good.

I think part of why it's been so easy to make friends is that a lot of people are also transplants . I haven't gotten any criticism from native Floridians about moving here. They've been welcoming.

But in terms of the downsides, Florida has a really car-centric design, which makes it uncomfortable to get around any other way. There are six-lane roads with traffic flying down them. There are signs that say bikes can share the road, but you'd have to be insane to do that. Even biking to the beach is difficult. I think I've only been to the beach three times in eight months.

I'm still getting used to Florida's topography. Richmond is a place with hills and rivers. But here, it's obviously flat as can be. There are a lot of single-family homes, low-rise apartments, and strip malls. A lot of the neighborhoods don't have good sidewalks, which was surprising to me.

I can't complain too much about the weather because I moved here in August when it started to cool off. The fall and winter have been nice. But we'll see how my first full summer goes.

Florida has dug into waging culture wars

Florida's elected leaders are pretty far-right. But I don't think the people of Florida are as far-right. That's an important difference. A lot of the races here are really close. And when you look at some of the ballot referendums that get put on the ballot in Florida , they are often for very progressive issues like reforming felon disenfranchisement.

I've tried to get involved with politics at the local level, where I feel I can make an impact. I got plugged into a group called Broward Young Democrats.

The area where I live is pretty accepting of the LGBTQ+ community for the most part. Wilton Manors, the town right next to Oakland Park is known as a "gay mecca." At the local level, there's a strong, supportive community.

But while I haven't experienced any direct harassment, and I don't fear for my safety, it is certainly concerning to think about what Florida might try to do down the road. If they're trying to ban transgender medical care today , what's to stop them from trying to pass discriminatory laws against all gay people tomorrow?

The cost of living is way higher in Florida

The biggest example is my rent. I had a one-bedroom apartment in Richmond that was 700 square feet, and I paid $1,400 a month, which at the time felt kind of expensive.

But here, I have a one-bedroom apartment that's about 800 square feet and it runs me $2,400 a month. It's a full thousand dollars more for an almost identical apartment.

Car insurance is also more expensive here. I pay double what I paid in Richmond. I had to reorient a lot of things in my budget when I moved here. I had to cancel some services, and I adjusted my retirement savings.

My apartment here is really nice, though. I decided I wanted to make sure I was happy with my living space, knowing the concerns I had about the state. Because if I was unhappy with the state politics and I had an apartment I hated, I would have been really miserable.

Florida is the right choice for me right now

Living here has obviously been great for my relationship with Brandon. We've been able to deepen our relationship and build a life together. That's the number one benefit, and it's been amazing.

But when I think longer-term, I don't see myself living here for the rest of my life. It's been a topic of conversation between us because I don't see myself buying property here, mainly because of the climate risk with hurricanes and flooding.

I'd like to buy property somewhere else, maybe in DC or Philly, somewhere more North. Then we could maybe rent an apartment or a condo down here and become snowbirds because I don't know if I'll able to be able to pull Brandon away from Florida entirely. He's got roots here.

And I always tell people: Love will make you do crazy things.

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