Moving from Resolution to Reality in 2011

res·o·lu·tion [rez-uh-loo-shuhn]

• the act of resolving or determining upon an action or course of action, method, procedure, etc.

• the mental state or quality of being resolved or resolute; firmness of purpose

The beginning of the New Year is a great time to reflect on the past and set resolutions to improve our future. While many resolutions are dismissed after only a few weeks, other resolutions are easy to incorporate into everyday life. Fortunately, for volunteers, the simple act of giving back to the community encompasses a number of the most common resolutions.

Meet new people

It’s easy to meet new people when you’re helping out in the community. Not only do you meet the like-minded individuals you are volunteering with, you also meet the leaders of non-profit organizations and agencies. With CVN, you can also meet people in a social setting between events. Our monthly meet-ups are a great way to meet new people and reinforce bonds made at volunteer events.

Get in shape

Volunteer events are a great way to stay active and help you get in shape. If you like to be outdoors, events like gardening at an elementary school or pulling invasive weeds at a nature center are the perfect way to break a sweat. Inside, you can help with family ice skating events, community dances, or haunted houses. All of these events will have you moving and are guaranteed to be more fun than time spent on the treadmill!

Find a new job

As a volunteer, you learn a lot of valuable skills that can help you increase your experience and perhaps lead to a new job. Volunteering provides opportunities for leadership, collaboration, and innovation. You can also learn job-specific skills by targeting certain opportunities. For example, many groups look for help with social media, administrative tasks, or event planning and implementation. Finally, volunteering provides a great way to network and meet people who can serve as mentors or help you in your job search.

Lend a helping hand

With so many options, it’s easy to give back to community in a way that is meaningful to you. You can volunteer in almost any area – helping the homeless, coordinating a food drive, tutoring – and you can do so as part of a group or on your own. As a search on Volunteer Arlington’s page reveals, the opportunities are truly endless.

As this New Year takes shape, I encourage you to think about your resolutions and how serving as a volunteer can help you meet your goals. And, of course, I hope that volunteering with CVN can be part of your plans.

Happy New Year!

- Tiffany, CVN Chair