In my series of articles on frugal hobbies, I break down an individual hobby for people who want to have fun without breaking the bank. The overview will include the details of the hobby itself, how to go into it with a frugal mindset, and the best ways to make use of your money. Not all of the hobbies covered are cheap or easy to get into, but I find ways to help you save money while still being able to partake in your favorite pastimes.
Volunteering
At some point in your life you’ve probably done a bit of volunteer work. Perhaps it was for school – a club activity or something to put on your college applications. Maybe your parents forced you to. You might’ve even chosen to do it on your own. Either way, I hope you’ve had experience with volunteering before, and appreciate how rewarding it can be. Volunteering as an adult is one of the best and most enriching pastimes out there!
It’s Incredibly Rewarding
As I said, volunteering is incredibly rewarding. Not only that, but donating can be its own reward as well – in much the same way. For those with no experience at either, take the dive and give it a try! There really isn’t anything to lose, but there is a lot you could gain from the experience. A lot of people hesitate when trying new things, but if there is no downside, what’s the harm in at least trying it? You could learn a lot about yourself and find a new favorite pastime in the process.
Everyone Can Do It
The only prerequisite for volunteering is having some free time. That’s it. Most people have that in spades (whether they realize that or not). There is rarely the case where you can’t volunteer. If you are truly pressed for time, or have a medical condition, that may be the case – but not having enough time is more of an exception than a rule.
Volunteering Vs Donating
With volunteering and donating, you definitely don’t need to do both. Some people may have tons of money, but no time. In that case, donating might be better for them. Others might find that they can’t really afford to donate much money, but they can contribute their time and skills. In that case, volunteering can be a great option. With that being said, if you have the ability and desire to do both – that’s great too!
Ignore People Who Try To Guilt-Trip You
Of course, don’t do something you don’t want to do. If you aren’t comfortable giving your time or money away, then you shouldn’t. Don’t let anyone guilt-trip you or tell you that you absolutely have to do it. I think volunteering and donating are rewarding, but I understand it’s not for everyone – and trying to make people feel guilty about it is a bad thing to do. Consider trying them, but ultimately do what is best for you and your situation!
Your Skills Are Invaluable
If you have any skills, they could add a tremendous amount of value to whoever you’re volunteering for. Good with your hands? You could do free repairs or maintenance. Got a knack for technology? You’d be surprised at how much non-profits need help with that. Whatever your skills may be, get creative with it. They likely have some use that would be appreciated as a volunteer.
You Can Also Gain Skills Through Volunteering
For those who don’t have any skills, volunteering can be a valuable time to learn them. Often, with certain activities that require skilled labor, they’re willing to teach you the basics so that you can help them out. Their problem is usually having the raw number of people available who can help – and many of the skills can be quickly learned.
Short And Long-Term Volunteering
There are both short-term and long-term volunteering opportunities abound. If you’ve volunteered in the past, it was probably short-term volunteering. However, if you start volunteering and decide you want to do more of it, you may decide you want to do some long-term volunteering. For example, volunteering at a church or a homeless shelter every weekend could be a form of long-term volunteering!
Connect With Others And Network
Never underestimate the value of word of mouth when you’re networking. In this context, I’m mainly talking about meeting people through friends and acquaintances – by volunteering. I’ve sure you’ve done this naturally in social settings before, so it shouldn’t be hard to extend this to a volunteering event. If you are on good terms with a fellow volunteer, you can meet new people through them. Just remember that it’s more about giving than taking – both with volunteering and networking!
Don’t Just Ask For Something – It’s Give And Take
This is a big one that I see all the time. Don’t just go to events or volunteer so that you can try to demand things from others. Yes, if you’ve ever slid into someone’s DMs and asked for help with a job, getting an interview, or for financial advice, then you’re this person. It’s usually a turn-off, and it rarely gets you to where you want to be. Instead of going that route, be willing to give as much as you take, if not more. People will notice that and appreciate it, which makes them more likely to help you when you need it.
It Can Be Good For Your Health
A lot of volunteering activities can be good for your health. For example, it can keep you active if you’re helping to fix up a shelter or working to make food for a lot of people. On top of that, it can be good for your mental health. Remember the rewarding and enriching feelings I mentioned earlier? That can certainly help pull you out of a rut, and put you in an overall better headspace.
How Much Do You Value Community?
If you aren’t convinced yet, consider how much you value your community. Is it a lot – or not at all? If you value your community and want to see it prosper, then you can see the need for donations and volunteering.
Conclusion
Hopefully this helped encourage you to try out volunteering more. If you do, I hope you enjoy the process! For more content like this, and a free budgeting template and financial goals worksheet, be sure to sign up for the Bitter to Richer newsletter.
