Volunteering is a selfless contribution, but it’s also a chance to share your unique gifts with the world, especially if your career doesn’t check that box. And evidence suggests that donating your time and energy improves well-being, boosts cognitive functioning, and even helps reduce mortality.
“Volunteering offers tremendous benefits, both personally and for the community,” Rick Cohen, chief operating officer at the National Council of Nonprofits. “Most importantly, volunteering allows people to see the impact of their efforts firsthand.”
And one key to finding a fulfilling position that maximizes your contribution? Searching inward. In practice, that could mean identifying your purpose, what you’re good at, or something “that brings you joy or reflects a cause you care about,” Cohen said — and then looking for an opportunity that matches. The key is to find a cause you believe in and a way to engage that feels meaningful to you.”
Below, we’ve rounded up five niche areas that may inspire you to think outside the box and start giving back in your own unique way.
Tax Advisor
If you’re an accounting whiz, there are plenty of outfits with finance-focused opportunities that could use your services. One of the biggest in the U.S. is the IRS — through its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs, volunteers provide free tax assistance to those who need it, such as older adults and folks with limited English proficiency.
Curriculum Writer
Calling all educators: Plenty of academic entities need curriculum writers to help volunteer teachers and after-school program leaders structure their lessons. For example Words Alive is a book club program that helps foster literacy skills for children, teens, and parents, calls for volunteers with a strong education background to create curricula centered on graphic novels.
Mock Interviewer
Recruiters, HR generalists, and anyone with experience helping others develop their careers may want to consider putting their prowess to use as a mock interviewer. You could assist immigrants and refugees by providing feedback, shaping answers, and explaining cultural nuances for nonprofit Upwardly Global. Or perhaps you’d like to help college students prepare to enter the job market through Braven, a nonprofit helping graduates kick-start their careers.
Adaptive Ski Instructor
Those who love to hit the slopes can turn their penchant for skiing into an opportunity to give back by introducing the sport to people with disabilities. Organizations like the United States Adaptive Recreation Center rely on volunteers to teach ski lessons — and if you’re new to the role, they offer free training and support.
Pet Adoption Photographer
Who doesn’t love taking pictures of adorable animals? Shelters all over the U.S. need photographers and videographers (professional or not) to capture adoptable pets in the hope of attracting forever families. Don’t worry if you don’t own fancy equipment — many shelters are fine with high-quality photos from your phone.
