If you want to bring a change to society and help those in need, doing charity work is the first and most effective way towards this noble cause. While it may seem easy to get into, the scarcity of organizations and charity entities can make entering this domain a challenging task. Before you step into it, reflect on the cause that calls you to contribute. Next, comprehend the reason behind doing it. Is it for personal reasons? Or is it to contribute to society in general?
These steps and questions will help you take a clear path and get you into the world of non-profit. Use the ideas provided in this guide to help you get started with charity work.
1. Visit Your Local NGOs
The easiest way to get started is to visit your local NGO or NPO and inquire about openings. This is helpful if you do not have a particular cause you wish to work for. While some organizations arrange and distribute meals for the needy on a small scale, others work internationally and need you to accompany them on the charity trip. While it may sound easy, you need to go back and forth to get a position in your local organization as well. Moreover, some do not pay and ask you to volunteer. So, if you want to do charity work solely for money, you may want to rethink your decision. However, it is not impossible either. With a relevant degree and adequate experience, you can take a new path in your career while earning as a volunteer.
Related: 9 Steps to Start a Charity
2. Consider Fundraising
Fundraising is another popular form of charity that holds the power to unite a big group of people for a similar cause. The concept is simple- you raise huge sums of money for people in need by encouraging others to donate. You do not have to enroll in an NGO or work for a big non-profit organization to start a fundraiser. Today, you can use social media and design dedicated websites to start fundraisers and send the collected amount to people in need. On a higher scale, organizations need individuals who can conduct and host fundraisers at a major level. While bigger organizations need professionals with a degree in marketing, sales, or other relevant certification, smaller organizations can accept you without a relevant degree if you show promise. The organization may also test your convincing power and the ability to encourage people into donating. Some other relevant opportunities include becoming a telephone or door-to-door fundraiser.
3. Apply Online
The best way to find a charity or non-profit organization of your interest is by conducting a quick online search. Make a list of all the interesting NPOs and NGOs based on your accessibility and reach. Since there are several causes and charity types to work for, you must first consider your purpose and passion. Why do you want to do charity work? Do you empathize with a particular unprivileged group? Or do you simply want to contribute to society? The volunteers at C4i Canada encourage people to donate to supervise immigrants and the hungry. Similarly, you can find a cause that resonates with you and triggers your emotions. Every volunteer entering charity work has a purpose to fulfill, which motivates and keeps them going. From small organizations with just a couple of employees to big entities that are spread across the country, you can find various kinds of charity organizations that are fighting for and promoting different causes.
4. Network More
Strengthening your network and meeting more people is particularly important if you want to get a job or internship in the NPO or NGO of your choice. Since employment opportunities are limited in charity work and volunteering organizations, the competition is high. While there may be a few positions open, you may not be eligible due to a lack of experience or qualification. However, you can turn this around by improving your network and meeting new people within the domain. Some organizations also need the candidates to undergo special training programs. If you desperately need an employment opportunity in an organization of your choice, consider getting certification in the training program of your choice. You can also step into this arena by requesting free internship opportunities. If they like your work, your chance of getting hired as a full-time employee can increase. Until then, network as much as you can and learn from your peers to gain valuable insights.
Doing charity work may be a noble cause but getting started with it can be a major challenge in itself. Unless you have the power and support to start your own organization with a strong cause, you must look into the options around you. This is a great way to learn and get inspired to form your own organization in the future.
