Be selective
Think about what matters to you, and be selective about where you spend your time. Choosing opportunities that make you feel good while helping others builds stronger communities, and enriches your own life at the same time.

Choose carefully
The United Way of Central New York Volunteer Center works with volunteers and local nonprofits to develop the best opportunities for youth, busy working adults and seniors.  You can feel confident about the quality of the opportunity you choose and about the organization you donate your time to support.

Research causes
that are important to you
Whether it's helping children achieve their potential, helping families become financially stable, providing emergency services to those in need or improving people’s health, find out what cause is closest to your heart and make a difference.

Consider the skills
you have to offer
Would you like to write an agency's newsletter? Or would you rather build a house? Find something you enjoy doing and enhance your skills through volunteering.

Learn something new
Volunteering can also teach you valuable new skills that you can use in other parts of your life. For example, learning how to handle crisis calls may help you communicate better.

Don't over-commit
Stick to a volunteering schedule that makes sense for you and leaves you time to enjoy the activity.

Consider volunteering
as a family
Group volunteering is a wonderful way to bond with your family or co-workers. Not only will you create lasting memories, but you will help someone in need.