When we think of community service, we might think of serving food in soup kitchens or building houses in third-world countries. Most of us don't really think about volunteering unless it's required for some reason. For me, my community service experience is limited to my high school church mission trips and the required service hours for my sorority. But the more I volunteer, the more I see just how important it is and why we as college kids need to be giving back.
1. You have more free time than you think
My high school mission trips were one week a year. Most day-time service projects are between one and three hours. It's totally possible to spend a few hours once or twice a month doing some good in your community. It may seem like a lot, but then consider how much time you spend watching Netflix every day...
2. Job experience you can't get fired from
You may learn some practical things like trimming trees or painting houses, or you may get to practice organizational skills while taking inventory in a supply room. If anything, volunteering will teach you some solid people skills, because you will never be working alone. And they can't get rid of you, cause you're doing it for free.
3. You will meet some really cool people
The people in charge of soup kitchens, homeless shelters, and other non-profits are easily some of the toughest and kindest people you'll ever meet. The people who live in and use these places have some of the most amazing stories. The people you work with can become some great friends. You can and will learn something from everyone you meet, no matter who they are.
4. It teaches you how to work hard
There's something about doing a job for free that kind of makes it, well, not a job. Sure, you can slack off and put in about 50% of the work you really could do and no one would bat an eye. But, you can also work your butt off to fix something or make something and have a lasting impact on the person who will use it. Once you understand why you're doing what you're doing, you'll be that much more motivated to do the best job you can.
5. You're needed
These places would not accept volunteers if they didn't need the help. Even if you don't feel like you can help, there is always something you can do for one of these organizations. I've done everything from cleaning windows on a church to playing bingo with nursing home residents. Whatever you can give, they will accept.
So go for it! See what you can do in your community and make it happen.
