Do you have professional development goals this year? Try volunteering

I am a huge believer in the power of learning by doing. There are benefits to trying something new, making mistakes, adjusting and trying again. I am also a believer in finding ways to have an impact in my community, a lot of times by volunteering. We all have professional skills which have a market value. Many nonprofits are fantastic at their mission, only to struggle with basic business functions like accounting, marketing, HR and general process. Donating these skills can have a positive impact on the nonprofits effectiveness. Which, as in kind donations, show up on the balance sheet just like cash. I place the value of a general volunteer at $75/ hour. 

• Tutoring kids might challenge your patience, communication skills and help you feel more grounded. That is a win for you and the kids, who get a positive adult role model ($80/ hour, getting tutored in math by an engineer, priceless).
• Addressing a challenge in accounts receivable, improves the nonprofits bottom line while flexing your problem solving and process improvement muscles ($175/ hour).
• Coaching/ mentoring a program director might challenge how you define your leadership philosophy and address challenges with your own employees. The mentee gets the benefit of your years of experience and a sounding board ($300/ hour).

As you look at personal and professional goals for 2020, consider how volunteering might help you meet those goals. Find an organization in a cause you care about, inquire about volunteer opportunities and let them know what you might like to do. Start the conversation. 

One final thought: I know we should volunteer/ give with a selfless heart not looking for anything in return. It is possible to volunteer with pure motives and also realize the personal benefits you get from volunteering. I will write about my experience soon.