VOLUNTEERING

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I have done voluntary work before at a few organisations and since that paid work is very difficult for me to find i am thinking to start voluntary work again to increase my confidence and boost my self esteem.

I have been searching for volunteer work for a very long time. When I do find something that fits, they usually ask for references, which I don't have.

It sucks.

Especially since I'm trying to obtain volunteer work in order to get references. gah!

Have you tried getting a personal reference from a family friend or an old school teacher? Volunteer organizations are more likely to accept personal references than businesses.

Yeah, I don't even have any of those.

I have 0 references. of any kind.

Volunteering is good.

It:

- fills in gaps on your resume

- gives you experience to list on your resume

- can potentially give you networking opportunities and recommendations/references for work later on

- let's you be useful, instead of getting in the habit of sitting around doing nothing while unemployed

- helps charities you like

- let's you meet people, or learn a hobby, or do your special interest

There are plenty of volunteer opportunities that don't ask for references. Some would accept a references from a friend, and some don't ask at all. Try volunteering at the local food pantry or animal shelter-- those are less likely to want tons of references. Or, go clean a community park or start your own food pantry drive or do something that's more informal.

Or, find online volunteer opportunities.