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Mentorship October 22, 2016
Whether you’re an elegant movie star or a businesswoman, most women have one goal in common: to make a difference in the world. For many Americans, they believe that this dream can become a reality. In fact, according to a study by Walden University, 90 percent of Americans agree that they can better the world through their actions.
If you’re not sure what actions you should take to positively impact the world, ENTITY is here to help. As part of celebrating National Make a Difference Day, here are eight unique ways any women can make a difference through volunteering!
Have you always wanted to explore the world … only you never had the time? When you volunteer abroad, not only will you grow personally, but you can also positively impact countless lives. Instead of sticking to “expected” volunteer countries like Mexico, check out this list of unique abroad volunteer opportunities. Whether learning sign language in Jamaica, training teachers in Morocco or diving in Fiji to gather data on marine life, volunteering has never been more adventurous. While you might initially experience culture shock, by the end you’ll find yourself wishing you never had to leave.
Are you a fashionista addicted to the newest styles? Is your closet overflowing with fashion pieces that are so last year? If you said, “Yes” to either question, cleaning out your closet while giving back to others may be the perfect way you can make a difference! Besides clothes, you can also donate surplus household goods to places like Goodwill or Salvation Army. If you have toys that are new or lightly used, check to see if your local children’s hospitals accept donations. Don’t forget about books; students or library members would definitely appreciate more reading material!
As Create The Good explains, one common obstacle that keeps men and women from volunteering is fear of the unfamiliar. The first time you volunteer somewhere new, you might keep thinking: Am I doing this right? Am I really qualified for this work? How do I make small-talk with strangers? If the idea of being surrounded by unknown people scares you, try to find a passion project. For instance, if you have family in the military, check out opportunities to send care packages to deployed troops. Or as one biology major suggests, you can volunteer at hospitals or for foundations like “Save A Life,” which screens men and women for heart problems. If you follow your passions when choosing how to volunteer, you can find opportunities that fit you best.
Still think you don’t have any useful skills for volunteering? Then check out VocalID; you literally just need your voice to change someone’s life! Reader’s Digest explains that volunteers simply need to record themselves talking for two to three hours, which is later used to create a personalized synthetic voice for people who can’t speak on their own. Artists may especially appreciate this volunteering opportunity since their voice is blended with hundreds of others to create a unique (and functional) vocal masterpiece.
You can also lend someone your ears for a few hours by visiting local assisted living facilities. For instance, you can start with weekly visits to a local homes. While the conversations could sometimes be awkward, remember the residents appreciate the time you spend with them. Research has shown, however, that visits don’t just improve elderly residents’ moods; they can also improve their quality of living. According to a study by Gary M. Skole, social isolation hinders the functioning of people’s immune system, making them more likely to become sick – which can be especially dangerous in older men and women. In addition, the Harvard School of Public Health found that “strong social ties” can also “preserve our brain as we age.” In other words, just by visiting elderly residents a few times a month, you could help keep their brains and memory sharp!
Are you the kind of woman who is crazy about fitness? Then this volunteering opportunity is unique enough to be perfect for you! According to Reader’s Digest, the Collective of Lady Wrestlers involves women who form leagues and arm wrestle against each other to raise money for worthy causes. After forming the first league in Virginia back in 2008, CLAW leagues now exist in 25 states and has since expanded internationally. The donations they’ve raised are equally impressive: So far, CLAW has given over $175,000 to various non-profits, ranging from Austin’s Community Yoga program to the Center for Anti-Violence Education. If you want to tone your biceps while giving a helping hand, look no further than CLAW!
Do you remember books or TV shows called “create your own adventure” because you made decisions that determined the plot? You can take the same approach with volunteering and create a unique opportunity to give back. If you want to be a fashion designer, why not host a local fashion show and donate the proceeds to your favorite non-profit? Or if you’re a musical artist, see if any hospitals nearby invite musicians to perform for patients. Need more ideas? Here are just a few of the volunteering opportunities young men and women have created:
The truth is, no matter what inspires you, you can find a volunteering opportunity that will trigger personal growth and help people around the world. It’s time to stop wishing you could make a difference and be one of the #WomenThatDo!
