Volunteering

Finding the right volunteer opportunity is important. Volunteering gives you the opportunity to not only help others and give back to the community, but it also helps you learn skills related to future employment. Here is some information about volunteering that might be helpful to you.

What do I need to do before I volunteer?

Before you choose a place to volunteer, you need to think about your interests and what type of activities you would like to do. Here are a few of the questions you can ask yourself.

Do you like to:

  • be around a lot of people or prefer to be alone?
  • be inside or outside?
  • move around on your feet or sit?
  • be around children or the elderly?
  • be around animals?
  • get your hands dirty?
  • be around food or clothing?
  • build things?

How do I find volunteer opportunities?

  • Ask around. Asking friends and family is a great way to find opportunities.
  • Look online. Doing a search on the internet can help connect you with volunteer opportunities in your area. It is a great way to learn about the organizations before you volunteer and find opportunities that you may not have been able to find otherwise.
  • Look around your neighborhood. You can stop by organizations and ask if they are accepting volunteers.

What are some common places to volunteer?

  • Animal shelters
  • Local libraries
  • Retirement homes
  • Museums
  • Religious organizations
  • Parks
  • Food pantries
  • Special Olympics
  • The Red Cross
  • Habitat for Humanity
  • YMCA
  • Goodwill

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This information was developed by the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative (ASERT). For more information, please contact ASERT at 877-231-4244 or info@PAautism.org. ASERT is funded by the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations, PA Department of Human Services.