Volunteering directions

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Here are 10 encouraging advices to help you navigate the world of volunteering with vulnerable groups, such as seniors, single people, women and migrants:

1.understand the needs of your target group

Before you start volunteering, take the time to understand the specific needs of the group you will be working with. Research the environment in which you want to work: 

Do you recognise groups of people, e.g. senior citizens who need support with daily activities, or migrants who want to improve their language skills? 

Understanding their situation will help you serve them better.

2 Establish personal relationships

Volunteering is not only about practical help, but also about building relationships. Try to make personal connections with the people you help. How. It could be a conversation, offer to spend time together. It doesn’t have to be a meeting that lasts for hours, it can even be small gestures that show you are interested in the situation, recognise the needs or want to get to know them. Demonstrate that they are VISIBLE. 

3.be empathetic and patient

Be prepared for obstacles! Working with seniors, single people, vulnerable women or migrants can require a lot of empathy and patience. How do you respond? Try to listen and understand their perspective, even if it differs from your own.

4.education and skills development

Where possible, share your knowledge and skills. This could be teaching computer skills to seniors, or helping migrants learn a language. In this way, you are giving them tools that can be useful to them in their daily lives.

5 Adapt your approach

Every person you will work with is different. Tailor your approach to their individual needs and abilities. For some it will be to support them in their daily activities, for others it will be to talk and listen.

Support their independence

The aim of volunteering is to support others in such a way that they can become more independent over time. Help, but at the same time encourage them to make their own actions and decisions.

Encourage activity

Organising activities together, such as workshops, meetings or trips, can be a great way to integrate and foster a sense of community. It is also an opportunity to develop new skills and interests.

8 Be emotionally supportive

Help doesn’t always have to be practical. Sometimes just being there alongside, ready to talk and be emotionally supportive, is enough. Many people appreciate the feeling that someone is there for them during difficult times.

9 Maintain regularity

Regularity is key to building trust. Try to be consistent in your actions, turn up on time and fulfil your commitments. This shows that you can be relied upon.

10. be open to cultural and social diversity

When working with migrants or women from different backgrounds, be open to diversity. Learn from other cultures, respect differences and try to understand the perspectives of the people you are working with.  

These tips will help you not only to volunteer effectively, but also to enjoy helping others and grow as a person.  There are no invisible people in the community – everyone, regardless of their life situation, deserves to be seen and supported.