What should you consider when choosing a sustainability volunteer opportunity?

A volunteering program related to a sustainability aspect is a win-win opportunity: individuals will broaden/apply their skills for a cause that benefits people, the planet and eventually their own career. More and more people ask me if they could make a career transition to sustainability without experience. It depends on several factors, but I usually mention some short post-graduate programs that may help. However, volunteering for a job with purpose can definitely help you develop and showcase your skills in the area. And of course, as there’s a variety of knowledge areas to explore, it’s important to align your experience with your values. This is actually something we should do regardless of doing voluntary work.

From my experience , your emphasis on aligning the volunteer project with personal and professional values is crucial. This ensures a more meaningful and fulfilling experience for the volunteer. By choosing a project that resonates with your passions, ethics, and principles, you're more likely to stay motivated and engaged throughout your volunteering journey. Additionally, considering long-term goals can help you leverage your volunteer experience for personal and professional development.

I think it‘s even more than alignment with core values: Ideally the project or initiative aligns with your core business: For example a company from the real estate sector could engage in projects aiming at homelessness or anti discrimination in the housing market. Or a company producing kitchen outlets engaging in initiatives around food waste. It makes their commitment more authentic and employees can easier identify and engage.

Sustainability has a wealth of opportunities to volunteer in and a range of areas that you can really help the outside world but also your own personal development and wellbeing too! Always seek out opportunities that align with your values - it will be far more beneficial to you and to the organisation you are supporting if you do!

The most important thing is to understand what the organisation need / want and where you can add benefit. It maybe that you can develop new skills through your volunteering so do not be put off by areas you are not yet experienced in. Speak to the organisation and understand what they are looking for - this can be in areas where they are willing to upskill you and experience is not always necessary

You have to consider the logistics against the assessed impact of the project when determining the project fit. The way I learned to do this is to examine the project, its objective, anticipated impact, and the activities that will need to take place to ensure this initiative is a success.

Detailing of the project and incidental cost also such as cost of travel cost of food have to be factored and this is very important because most of time it ends up being not taken up and be a big cool in the pocket

Always, I'm considering a good way to work as a part of volunteers team... The volunteer work, give as some opportunities not only one...For example.. We do something good for other , we give others our time, exchange skills, abilities, experience and knowledge around for a better world...and some time , creat a favor to find a good job for future ... Also, the volunteer work is great to be happy and to be strong as a part of community....

Be open to new perspectives. While thinking about the change you might create it's worth thinking about what you would do if you had to fly to a foreign land for your volunteer project. People say take their hearts and minds and learning a simple local language is a great way to start. You also need to understand their traditions, beliefs, and worldviews. Understanding local people and cultures can help you achieve your goals effectively.

Connect with current or former volunteers to learn about their experiences. Inquire about the organization's beliefs, the impact of their work, and whether the experience met their expectations.