Volunteering can give you the opportunity to try something new, gain experience, develop skills, improve your career prospects, build confidence and meet new people. However, volunteering isn’t only about helping, it also comes with advancing your career, and you even feel happier and healthier. No matter what your interests or hobbies are, there is always a volunteer organization that requires your service. Let’s dive in!!!
WHY VOLUNTEER IN PHILADELPHIA
Philadelphia, colloquially Philly, is a city in the state of Pennsylvania in the United States. It is the sixth-most-populous city in the United States and the most populous city in the state of Pennsylvania. Philadelphia is where the American Dream was founded and volunteering is part of what makes that dream possible. Each year, more “voluntourists” are indulging their senses of exploration and passion for service, venturing off their hotel maps and into fulfilling opportunities to help maintain the natural splendor of the region, preserve historic landmarks for future generations, and champion the city’s artistic voices. Rejuvenate your meeting attendees while they connect with the dynamic individuals who call Philadelphia home.
ARE THERE PAID VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES IN PHILADELPHIA?
Volunteers usually do not receive salary. They have some sort of a subsidy which allows them to cover their basic expenses in the country where they are volunteering. Basically, there are partially paid volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia. This remuneration only covers the basic expenses the volunteer will incur in the country.
HOW CAN YOU BECOME A VOLUNTEER IN PHILADELPHIA?
To become a volunteer in Philadelphia, there are certain steps to you need to follow to guide you. Here are the steps you can take to while scouting for volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia:
1. Decide which cause you care about
Choosing to volunteer for an organization or cause that you feel passionate about can increase the chances that you enjoy the opportunity. Take time to determine what you really care about before beginning a search for volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia. For example, if you’re passionate about care giving, you may enjoy volunteering as a care giver to the aged. The more specific you get about your passions and interests, the more likely you are to find a volunteer position that is the best fit for you.
2. Identify the skills and knowledge you can offer
Many volunteer opportunities ask that individuals have certain skills. For example, an animal shelter looking for an administrative volunteer will likely want that volunteer to have previous experience. Assess the skills you currently have to see if there are specific roles you could volunteer for. Most nonprofits also have entry-level opportunities that train you on the basics, especially if it’s a long-term role. Also read: 13 Best Veterinary Volunteering Opportunities
3. Create a volunteer resume
Creating a volunteer resume that lists your previous experience as a volunteer as well as your skills and interests can be a great asset when applying for opportunities. A resume allows the organization to quickly see what you have to offer and help find the most appropriate volunteer position for you.
4. Determine how often you can volunteer
Identify how many hours and days a week or month you can commit yourself to the position. For example, if you work a full-time job during normal business hours, you may only want to volunteer on Saturday or Sunday. If you are a stay-at-home parent, you may want to volunteer more frequently. Being realistic about your availability can ensure you don’t overcommit yourself when volunteering.
5. Get all the relevant details for the volunteer position
Before applying for a volunteer position, ensure that you know all of the details. Learn about the tasks you’ll complete, the level of commitment needed and any required training. The more information you know, the more prepared you will be if you get the position.
6. Checkup volunteer site for opportunities in Philadelphia
To find a volunteer opportunity in Philadelphia community is to search via search engines. These sites allow you to input your skills, preferences and schedule, and then matches you with nearby opportunities.
7. Apply for the volunteer position
Many volunteer positions require you to submit an application. While these applications are usually not as stringent as those for a job, you should still treat the application as if it’s for a professional position. Take time to ensure proper grammar and spelling, and provide references if asked for them. You may also need to prepare for an interview if the position involves leading others or handling sensitive information.
8. Follow up after you apply
After applying for a volunteer position, follow up two or three days later if you haven’t heard back from the organization. Many nonprofit organizations are busy and have limited resources, meaning it can take longer to respond to inquiries about volunteer positions. Following up ensures your volunteer application is received and conveys your interest in the opportunity. There are other steps to apply for volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia.
10. Complete any required training
Once you have secured a volunteer position, complete any training required. Most training will be minimal, but some organizations require you to hold a certification or complete a training course before you can begin volunteering.
11. Begin with a limited commitment
When you first start, plan your schedule only a month or two into the future. See if you enjoy the position and organization before you make a full commitment. Once you know you want to continue volunteering in this capacity, consider giving more of your time to the organization.
12. Be professional
Treat your volunteer commitment just as you would a paying job. Show up on time, deliver on your commitments last minute and be professional while performing volunteer work. Nonprofit organizations rely on volunteers for many of their duties, so being reliable and professional makes a positive impact on the agency.
13. Regularly assess your volunteer experiences
Check in with yourself every few months to make sure you still enjoy the volunteer position. If not, you may want to consider searching for another volunteer opportunity in your Gainesville. You could also speak to the volunteer coordinator to see if there are other roles available within the same organization
HOW CAN ONE FIND VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES IN PHILADELPHIA?
Finding for volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia community has been made easy with the presence of internet and social media. Some voluntary organization in Philadelphia sends in notice for application to their social media pages or their website.
15 VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES IN PHILADELPHIA
In this section we will list 15 best volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia. They include the following;
1. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY PHILADELPHIA
The mission: To build and repair homes, working with families Getting involved: Pick up a hammer alongside Habitat staff, future Habitat homeowners, and Philadelphia homeowners, or help with inventory and customer service in the ReStore, Habitat’s donation center and reuse store. Construction and repair work happens Wednesday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. ReStore opportunities are Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. or 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers must fill out an application online and commit to at least one, full-time slot. Contact: Habitat for Humanity ReStore: 2318 Washington Ave., 215-739-9300, Website:
2. MANNA
The mission: Formally known as Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance, MANNA provides free, nourishing meals to those with life-threatening illnesses, like cancer, HIV/AIDS, and heart disease. Getting involved: Volunteers at MANNA help with everything from chopping vegetables to baking pies to prepping, packaging, and delivering meals. Some volunteers also assist with event preparation, community outreach, and general office work. To get involved, fill out an online application and attend a 45-minute orientation session. This is another one of best volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia. Contact: Headquarters: 420 N. 20th St., 215-496-2662 Website:
3. BACK ON MY FEET
The mission: Back on My Feet aims to combat homelessness using group jogs to restore people’s confidence, strength, and self-esteem. The group recruits members at homeless and residential facilities. Those who commit to 30 days of early-morning runs and achieve 90% attendance can join the professional-development program, which includes job-skill and financial-literacy classes. Get involved: Prime for early birds, Back on My Feet gathers at 5:30 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at five Philadelphia locations. You can sign up for this Philadelphia volunteering opportunities either to run or walk (all levels welcome) alongside members on a 1- to 5-mile course, providing support and encouragement along the way. Volunteers are encouraged to commit to showing up once a week, and have to complete a 60-minute orientation before joining. Contacts: Headquarters: 100 S. Broad St., Suite 2136, meeting locations vary across Center City, South Philly, West Philly, Point Breeze, and North Philly, 215-772-1080. Website:
4. Philadelphia Orchard Project (POP)
The mission: Philadelphia Orchard Project plants and supports community orchards across the city in partnership with schools, churches, community gardens, and other nonprofits. The harvests, or proceeds from any sales, benefit low-income communities. Get involved: Green thumb or not, you can sign up online to partake in a range of events, including tree plantings, pruning sessions, and workshops about orchard care. All ages and skill levels are welcome. For a deeper commitment, volunteers can join a POP committee, which choose and support orchard partners, plan events, and raise money. Contacts: Headquarters: 4000 Woodland Ave., 215-724-1247 Website:
5. Project Sunshine
The mission: To cheer up pediatric patients in medical settings Get involved: Bring back a sense of childhood to kids living in care facilities. Projects include hands-on fun, like crafting homemade slime and lava lamps. Volunteers also keep patients company so that they don’t feel isolated in a hospital-like setting. Individual volunteers work with kids at the Pediatric Specialty Care in East Falls. To get started on this volunteering opportunity in Philadelphia, complete an online application and webinar training. Project Sunshine also offers separate volunteer options for college students and corporate groups. Contacts: Volunteer location (for individuals): Pediatric Specialty Care at Philadelphia, 3301 Scotts Lane Website:
6. Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)
The mission: To help save Philadelphia’s homeless pets Get involved: As a volunteer, you can help with pet adoption efforts, clean the shelters, or take pups out for walks. Commitment and scheduling are flexible and all PAWS locations welcome help. To sign up, fill out an application online and complete an orientation session. Contacts: Locations vary, 215-238-9901 (Old City location) Website:
7. Volunteering Untapped PHL
The mission: Born out of Baltimore, Volunteering Untapped was created to make it easy for young professionals to give back to their communities. The Philadelphia chapter partners with a different nonprofit organization each month. The group meets to volunteer through activities like cleaning up parks, cooking at food banks, and making arts-and-crafts kits for children in hospitals. After each volunteer session, the group gathers to eat, drink, and network. Get involved: The group meets for organized volunteer activities from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the second Saturday of each month. Dubbed the “Afterjawn,” the social gathering takes place immediately following at a nearby bar. Those who want to get involved can register online. Contact: Locations vary Website:
8. ARTZ Philadelphia
The mission: To use creative expression and art-based activities to improve the lives of people with dementia and their caretakers Getting involved: ARTZ volunteers help facilitators with hands-on projects, art discussions at museums and care communities, and behind-the-scenes work, like planning the organization’s annual art exhibition. Most activities take place on weekday mornings and afternoons. Interested volunteers must submit an online application and complete a four-session training program. Contacts: Headquarters: 1229 Chestnut St., #188, 610-721-1606 Website:
9. PURPLE HOUSE PROJECT PA INC`
Mission Statement To Strenghth, Empower and Transition women impacted by Intimate Partner Violence via connection to essential resources that aid in the healing process.
Description
Christine’s focus is to accelerate goals for the Purple House Project PA Inc. (PHPPA). She has already managed to collaborate with the Center for Hope (CFH) Tioga/Simpkins House, a local women’s shelter in North Philadelphia, and has teamed up to create a community garden. This garden project enables shelter residents to plant, maintain, and harvest healthy fruits, vegetables, and a variety of holistic herbs. Participants who can engage in the community garden are then able to positively benefit from locally grown fresh foods at no cost. Her garden initiative will directly improve nutritional understanding and decrease food insecurity within the community. Additionally, Christine sees her garden project expanding into other opportunistic areas that can offer unique and innovative programming. These include collaborating with organizations that can teach users how to use produce as ingredients in wellness items such as essential oils and skincare creams or inviting sub-contractors to facilitate nutrition classes, cooking classes, and other wellness-based education. Contact: 114 STALEY AVE SUITE 301`COLLINGDALE, PA 19023United States Website: Also read: WHY IS VOLUNTEERING IMPORTANT? BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING ABROAD
10. ACE Mentor Program of Greater Philadelphia
MISSION STATEMENT– To engage, excite and enlighten high school students to pursue careers in architecture, engineering and construction through mentoring and to support their continued advancement in the industry. Students are assigned to teams led by volunteer mentors from firms representing architects, construction managers, engineers (civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, environmental), owners and trades people. Teams meet after school, usually every other week, for 15 to 16 sessions held in the offices of mentor firms or at the school. Each team selects a project and goes through the entire design process learning various skills along the way. In addition to “office” meetings, teams go on field trips to actual construction sites. At the end of the school year, the teams present their projects to assembled mentors, family and friends, much as an actual design team would present to a client. This is a best volunteering opportunities that encourage collaboration among Philadelphia students.
Description
This volunteering program in Philadelphia needs professional volunteers from the integrated construction industry. Architects, engineers, construction managers, crafts/trades personnel are examples of the type of mentors we need. The mentor should be able to commit to every or every other week meeting for two hours after school hours. The mentor will be assign to a team of other professional volunteers from the industry to meet with a group of students Contact: 36 South 18th StreetPhiladelphia, PA 19103United States Website:
11. ETERNAL LIFE CHRISTIAN CENTER
Mission Statement We provide free-gently worn clothing and shoes to men, women and children at our Blessing Shop. Clothing is by donations and the Blessing Shop has a full staff of only volunteers. This volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia targets the homeless population and those families struggling with difficult financial crisis. They provide infants, children, women and men clothing and shoes at no charge. We also assist low-income families with housing opportunities–never running a credit score or requiring unaffordable rent. Contact: 1320 DEKALB STREETNORRISTOWN, PA 19401United States Website:
12. SHARING EXCESS
Mission Statement Sharing Excess connects colleges and communities to reduce hunger and food waste. We believe in sharing excess not wasting. Our mission is to use 100% of healthy food excess in communities to increase prosperity for all. Description Sharing Excess is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating food insecurity by redistributing excess food in the community. By the end of 2021, we hope to redistribute 1,000,000 pounds of food in our city of Philadelphia through daily distribution pick-ups and our pop-up distribution events. Contact: 5109 Warren Street, Philadelphia, PA 19131, US Website
13. PHILADELPHIA CORPORATION FOR AGING
Mission Statement To improve the quality of life for older Philadelphians and those with disabilities and to assist them in achieving the greatest possible levels of health, independence and productivity.
Description
A private nonprofit organization founded in 1973, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA), is the fourth largest in a nationwide network of Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), and the largest in Pennsylvania. Brought into being by the federal Older Americans Act, these AAAs are mandated to “facilitate the area-wide development and implementation of a comprehensive, coordinated system for providing long-term care in home and community-based settings, in a manner responsive to the needs and preferences of older individuals and their family caregivers.” PCA carries out this mission through advocacy, fund administration, planning, program development and service coordination. Contact:642 NORTH BROAD STREET, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19130, US Website
14. HEARTS ALIVE VILLAGE
Mission Statement It’s our mission to fight daily to ensure pets are given a second chance at life by taking care of their medical and behavior issues before placing them in a new home. At any given time, Hearts Alive Village will have as many as 100 cats and 50 dogs in our care and on a treatment plan. During certain times of the year, such as when cats are reproducing at a higher volume (kitten season) this number can triple. Also read: Top 10 Volunteer in Africa with Animals Project Description Hearts Alive Village is located in the heart of Las Vegas, Nevada, and was founded in 2013 because of an intense need to help save dogs and cats that were losing their lives in an overcrowded shelter system, and to assist pet owners who have no other place to turn. This is another best volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia. Contact: 4132 S RAINBOW BLVD STE 113, LAS VEGAS, NV 89103, US Website
15. ZIA INCORPORATED
Mission Statement We are a charitable organization that provides complete, nutritionally balanced and delicious meals to the families of Philadelphia school children who face food insecurity. Description Zia aims to combat the food insecurity of school children by providing nutritious meal kits to their families on a weekly basis. Zia was started in 2015 when its founder partnered with a local elementary school to cook for families in need. Staffed by generous and caring volunteers, Zia expanded to opening a food pantry in that same school, providing 8-10 meals a month to nearly 40 member families. Zia switched to a delivery model so that we can serve even more families. This is the last volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia on this list. Contact: PO BOX 56137, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19130, US Website
In Conclusion
Finally, Volunteers are the lifeblood of a region that thrives. As a volunteer your time and talent can have a huge impact in someone’s life. 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. It’s true that the more you volunteer, the more benefits you’ll experience. Giving in even simple ways can help those in need and improve your health and happiness. Voluntary is a win-win situation. Therefore, join volunteering opportunities in Philadelphia to give back to the society.
References
https://www.inquirer.com/things-to-do/https://www.volunteermatch.org/
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