Help Wanted!

Volunteering can improve the lives of others...and it's great for your mind, body and soul.  (istock)

Several years ago, one of my doctors suggested that I find some volunteer work to do. At the time, I was trying to come to terms with having an acquired brain injury and the limitations that it presented both physically and mentally. I had loved my job and to be told that I could not work again was extremely difficult. My doctor believed that volunteering would offer me a purpose and help me to contribute to society in a meaningful way.

At first, I dismissed the idea because of financial difficulties, chronic fatigue, mobility issues and lack of self-esteem. Eventually though, after looking into various opportunities, I decided that I would like to help out at my local elementary school. It was a good fit for me, as I could walk there and schedule my time according to my needs.

I have been volunteering at the school for seven years now, and the experience has been extremely rewarding. Assisting teachers in a classroom setting for several hours each week has made me feel like the skills that I offer are valued. My self esteem has improved, as a result. Volunteer work has helped me acknowledge that I am not my illness. For me, it has been the best rehab I could have found.

The considerations for a person with a disability or chronic illness can be quite different from those of an able-bodied volunteer, but the most difficult part is often making the first move. Here are a few things that I learned along the way:

GETTING STARTED

Determine what you have to offer: Do you have any special skills? Are you a people person? Do you have an eagerness to help out in whatever way you can?

Set some goals: Think about what volunteering can offer you. Before you make up your mind about where you would like to volunteer, you must first ask yourself what you hope to gain from the experience. Would you like to develop new skills, contribute to a cause, or get out and meet new people? Michael Sausser, 49, a volunteer in Palm Springs, California, has found another benefit to his volunteer work. “I like movies and live theatre, so I try to volunteer at those events,” he says. “It means that I often get a pass to watch the performance. Living on a fixed income does not allow me that luxury.”

Decide how much time you can spare: You can choose to volunteer on a regular schedule, but if you find this difficult, you can volunteer when time permits, as Sausser has done. “Due to my chronic illness, I am not in a position to make a regular time commitment to anyone,” he explains. “However, I will often look in the local paper [each] week to see if a certain event requires a volunteer specifically for that occasion.”

Do some research: Local newspapers and flyers are a good place to start, as they often advertise for volunteers. Most communities also have volunteer centres that are helpful in finding a suitable position that fits the needs of the volunteer. The Internet is a great resource as well (see sidebar).

Consider helping out from home: Not all volunteer positions require you to leave your house. Becoming a “virtual volunteer” offers those who have mobility issues an opportunity to become involved. Organizations are looking for people to write newsletters or blogs, make phone calls to raise funds, or offer support to those who have physical limitations and are unable to leave their dwelling. You can help out online as an email support buddy for someone in need. Some churches or hospital auxiliaries require knitters to make baby booties, caps for preemies and afghans to wrap around patients. You’ll find that there are many possibilities once you begin to look around. Working independently takes self-discipline, so make sure you are up for it before you make a commitment.

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

Once you have made the decision about where you would like to volunteer, the next step is to make contact with the appropriate organization. Each group will have their own screening process with regards to your eligibility. Here’s what you can expect

Applications: In most cases, you will be required to fill out an application. Depending on where you apply and the nature of the position, the application form can be quite detailed and similar to what you would find if you were applying for paid employment. It’s up to you to determine if you want to disclose your disability. By telling the organization upfront, it allows them the opportunity to look at ways that they can support you in your capacity as a volunteer. It is also a great way to raise awareness about volunteers with disabilities. Most organizations and associations have a confidentiality clause stated on their application forms.

Police checks: Many volunteer positions require police record checks as standard procedure. It costs around $25. Most organizations will pay upfront or reimburse you. It can take up to six weeks to receive your clearance in the mail.

Expenses: According to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), volunteering your time is not considered a donation. In most cases, unless an arrangement has been made, transportation costs cannot be claimed on your income tax. For more information, refer to the Gifts and Official Donation Receipts page of the CRA at:
http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/E/pub/tp/it110r3/.

This article is dedicated to the memory of June Callwood (1924-2007), a friend, mentor and someone who encouraged me to move forward with my life during my bleakest days.

Gloria Troyer is a freelance writer living in Guelph, Ontario.