If you are considering starting a year of service in the fall and haven't started the process of completing your volunteer application yet - now is a great time to get started. The task may seem daunting, but don't worry, we are here to help. Here are 11 tips to get your started...
1. Remember to Fill Out
a Volunteer Profile: The Volunteer Profile form is designed to help our
member programs get to know you. Once you complete and submitted your form,
programs may contact you directly to speak about their opportunities. The
Volunteer Profile form can be found here: https://catholicvolunteernetwork.org/user/register
2. What is Your Ministry?: Ask
yourself what type of ministry you want to serve in. With more than 220
programs, there are numerous fields you can serve in including hospital
ministry, elderly outreach, social services and education.Spend some time in prayer to see how God is calling you to serve those most in need.
3. Discernment:
Be
patient with yourself in the discernment process. Figuring out an
important life decision like this takes time. Volunteer opportunities
are
quite plentiful and it can be overwhelming finding the right one for
you. In the process, trust that God is with you and has a plan for your
life. For
advice, talk to trusted friends, family members, and mentors. Likewise,
bring the decision to
prayer and ask God for guidance.
4. Know Your Needs:
Ask yourself what you need in terms of support and nourishment during
your time
commitment (i.e. your own room, an intentional community, spiritual
direction
or nature). Additionally, be aware of your standing commitments -
whether they are financial, family, or personal. When talking with the
staff members of the programs you are applying for, be up front about
these needs. They will often be happy to work with you to find the
program or position that is the right fit.
5. Use Your Gifts:
Everybody has gifts that they can offer to their volunteer program and service
site. When looking for the right program for you, think about what you have to
offer and what types of things you excel at naturally. For example, if you know you have a talent for working with kids you may
want to consider programs that focus on education.
6. What is the Application Process Like?: At the very beginning, be sure you have a good understanding of the whole application process. Find
out whether you apply to the program as a whole or do you apply for a specific
position? What types of interviews will be involved? When can you expect to have a final decision about your acceptance? Knowing all this from the start will help you move through the process with ease.
7. Deadlines: Double
check those application deadlines! Many programs have deadlines in March and
April but some ask applications to be submitted as early as December, while
other programs accept applications on a rolling basis. It is always helpful to apply as early as possible - programs do fill up quickly!
8. One-on-One: It is
always a good idea to talk to a current volunteer if you are considering
service. If you don't know a volunteer personally, ask the program if they would put you in touch with one. Or, you can always call the CVN office and talk to a staff member about their service experience (half of our staff is made up of former volunteers!) This conversation will give you a better sense of what the experience of serving in that program will really be like.
9. Bring Those
Questions: When contacting a program to ask about their various volunteer
opportunities, be sure to have a few questions prepared. Some might include:
“What sort of spiritual commitment is there?” and “What does community life
look like?” Rest assured that the application process is a two-way dialogue. Programs want to hear your questions as much as they want to ask their own.
10. Be Appreciative:
It is always a good idea to thank your program after your interview. A well
thought out email or letter can make a big impression in any opportunity you
may be seeking.
Good luck with the application process and remember that we are always here to help!
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