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How to Write a Great Community Service Essay

College Admissions , Extracurriculars

Are you applying to a college or a scholarship that requires a community service essay? Do you know how to write an essay that will impress readers and clearly show the impact your work had on yourself and others?

Read on to learn step-by-step instructions for writing a great community service essay that will help you stand out and be memorable.

What Is a Community Service Essay? Why Do You Need One?

A community service essay is an essay that describes the volunteer work you did and the impact it had on you and your community. Community service essays can vary widely depending on specific requirements listed in the application, but, in general, they describe the work you did, why you found the work important, and how it benefited people around you.

Community service essays are typically needed for two reasons:

#1: To Apply to College

• Some colleges require students to write community service essays as part of their application or to be eligible for certain scholarships.
• You may also choose to highlight your community service work in your personal statement.

#2: To Apply for Scholarships

• Some scholarships are specifically awarded to students with exceptional community service experiences, and many use community service essays to help choose scholarship recipients.
• Green Mountain College offers one of the most famous of these scholarships. Their "Make a Difference Scholarship" offers full tuition, room, and board to students who have demonstrated a significant, positive impact through their community service

Getting Started With Your Essay

In the following sections, I'll go over each step of how to plan and write your essay. I'll also include sample excerpts for you to look through so you can get a better idea of what readers are looking for when they review your essay.

Step 1: Know the Essay Requirements

Before your start writing a single word, you should be familiar with the essay prompt. Each college or scholarship will have different requirements for their essay, so make sure you read these carefully and understand them.

Specific things to pay attention to include:

• Length requirement
• Application deadline
• The main purpose or focus of the essay
• If the essay should follow a specific structure

Below are three real community service essay prompts. Read through them and notice how much they vary in terms of length, detail, and what information the writer should include.

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

"Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words."

From the Laura W. Bush Traveling Scholarship:

"Essay (up to 500 words, double spaced) explaining your interest in being considered for the award and how your proposed project reflects or is related to both UNESCO's mandate and U.S. interests in promoting peace by sharing advances in education, science, culture, and communications."

From the LULAC National Scholarship Fund:

"Please type or print an essay of 300 words (maximum) on how your academic studies will contribute to your personal & professional goals. In addition, please discuss any community service or extracurricular activities you have been involved in that relate to your goals."

Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas

Even after you understand what the essay should be about, it can still be difficult to begin writing. Answer the following questions to help brainstorm essay ideas. You may be able to incorporate your answers into your essay.

• What community service activity that you've participated in has meant the most to you?
• What is your favorite memory from performing community service?
• Why did you decide to begin community service?
• What made you decide to volunteer where you did?
• How has your community service changed you?
• How has your community service helped others?
• How has your community service affected your plans for the future?

You don't need to answer all the questions, but if you find you have a lot of ideas for one of two of them, those may be things you want to include in your essay.

Writing Your Essay

How you structure your essay will depend on the requirements of the scholarship or school you are applying to. You may give an overview of all the work you did as a volunteer, or highlight a particularly memorable experience. You may focus on your personal growth or how your community benefited.

Regardless of the specific structure requested, follow the guidelines below to make sure your community service essay is memorable and clearly shows the impact of your work.

Samples of mediocre and excellent essays are included below to give you a better idea of how you should draft your own essay.

Step 1: Hook Your Reader In

You want the person reading your essay to be interested, so your first sentence should hook them in and entice them to read more. A good way to do this is to start in the middle of the action. Your first sentence could describe you helping build a house, releasing a rescued animal back to the wild, watching a student you tutored read a book on their own, or something else that quickly gets the reader interested. This will help set your essay apart and make it more memorable.

Compare these two opening sentences:

"I have volunteered at the Wishbone Pet Shelter for three years."

"The moment I saw the starving, mud-splattered puppy brought into the shelter with its tail between its legs, I knew I'd do whatever I could to save it."

The first sentence is a very general, bland statement. The majority of community service essays probably begin a lot like it, but it gives the reader little information and does nothing to draw them in. On the other hand, the second sentence begins immediately with action and helps persuade the reader to keep reading so they can learn what happened to the dog.

Step 2: Discuss the Work You Did

Once you've hooked your reader in with your first sentence, tell them about your community service experiences. State where you work, when you began working, how much time you've spent there, and what your main duties include. This will help the reader quickly put the rest of the essay in context and understand the basics of your community service work.

Not including basic details about your community service could leave your reader confused.

Step 3: Include Specific Details

It's the details of your community service that make your experience unique and memorable, so go into the specifics of what you did.

For example, don't just say you volunteered at a nursing home; talk about reading Mrs. Johnson her favorite book, watching Mr. Scott win at bingo, and seeing the residents play games with their grandchildren at the family day you organized. Try to include specific activities, moments, and people in your essay. Having details like these let the readers really understand what work you did and how it differs from other volunteer experiences.

Compare these two passages:

"For my volunteer work, I tutored children at a local elementary school. I helped them improve their math skills and become more confident students."

"As a volunteer at York Elementary School, I worked one-on-one with second and third graders who struggled with their math skills, particularly addition, subtraction, and fractions. As part of my work, I would create practice problems and quizzes and try to connect math to the students' interests. One of my favorite memories was when Sara, a student I had been working with for several weeks, told me that she enjoyed the math problems I had created about a girl buying and selling horses so much that she asked to help me create math problems for other students."

The first passage only gives basic information about the work done by the volunteer; there is very little detail included, and no evidence is given to support her claims. How did she help students improve their math skills? How did she know they were becoming more confident?

The second passage is much more detailed. It recounts a specific story and explains more fully what kind of work the volunteer did, as well as a specific instance of a student becoming more confident with her math skills. Providing more detail in your essay helps support your claims as well as make your essay more memorable and unique.

Step 4: Show Your Personality

It would be very hard to get a scholarship or place at a school if none of your readers felt like they knew much about you after finishing your essay, so make sure that your essay shows your personality. The way to do this is to state your personal strengths, then provide examples to support your claims. Take some time to think about which parts of your personality you would like your essay to highlight, then write about specific examples to show this.

• If you want to show that you're a motivated leader, describe a time when you organized an event or supervised other volunteers.
• If you want to show your teamwork skills, write about a time you helped a group of people work together better.
• If you want to show that you're a compassionate animal lover, write about taking care of neglected shelter animals and helping each of them find homes.

Step 5: State What You Accomplished

After you have described your community service and given specific examples of your work, you want to begin to wrap your essay up by stating your accomplishments. What was the impact of your community service? Did you build a house for a family to move into? Help students improve their reading skills? Clean up a local park? Make sure the impact of your work is clear; don't be worried about bragging here.

If you can include specific numbers, that will also strengthen your essay. Saying "I delivered meals to 24 home-bound senior citizens" is a stronger example than just saying "I delivered meals to lots of senior citizens."

Also be sure to explain why your work matters. Why is what you did important? Did it provide more parks for kids to play in? Help students get better grades? Give people medical care who would otherwise not have gotten it? This is an important part of your essay, so make sure to go into enough detail that your readers will know exactly what you accomplished and how it helped your community.

"My biggest accomplishment during my community service was helping to organize a family event at the retirement home. The children and grandchildren of many residents attended, and they all enjoyed playing games and watching movies together."

"The community service accomplishment that I'm most proud of is the work I did to help organize the First Annual Family Fun Day at the retirement home. My job was to design and organize fun activities that senior citizens and their younger relatives could enjoy. The event lasted eight hours and included ten different games, two performances, and a movie screening with popcorn. Almost 200 residents and family members attended throughout the day. This event was important because it provided an opportunity for senior citizens to connect with their family members in a way they aren't often able to. It also made the retirement home seem more fun and enjoyable to children, and we have seen an increase in the number of kids coming to visit their grandparents since the event."

The second passage is stronger for a variety of reasons. First, it goes into much more detail about the work the volunteer did. The first passage only states that she helped "organize a family event." That really doesn't tell readers much about her work or what her responsibilities were. The second passage is much clearer; her job was to "design and organize fun activities."

The second passage also explains the event in more depth. A family day can be many things; remember that your readers are likely not familiar with what you're talking about, so details help them get a clearer picture.

Lastly, the second passage makes the importance of the event clear: it helped residents connect with younger family members, and it helped retirement homes seem less intimidating to children, so now some residents see their grand kids more often.

Step 6: Discuss What You Learned

One of the final things to include in your essay should be the impact that your community service had on you. You can discuss skills you learned, such as carpentry, public speaking, animal care, or another skill.

You can also talk about how you changed personally. Are you more patient now? More understanding of others? Do you have a better idea of the type of career you want? Go into depth about this, but be honest. Don't say your community service changed your life if it didn't because trite statements won't impress readers.

In order to support your statements, provide more examples. If you say you're more patient now, how do you know this? Do you get less frustrated while playing with your younger siblings? Are you more willing to help group partners who are struggling with their part of the work? You've probably noticed by now that including specific examples and details is one of the best ways to create a strong and believable essay .

"As a result of my community service, I learned a lot about building houses and became a more mature person."

"As a result of my community service, I gained hands-on experience in construction. I learned how to read blueprints, use a hammer and nails, and begin constructing the foundation of a two-bedroom house. Working on the house could be challenging at times, but it taught me to appreciate the value of hard work and be more willing to pitch in when I see someone needs help. My dad has just started building a shed in our backyard, and I offered to help him with it because I know from my community service how much work it is. I also appreciate my own house more, and I know how lucky I am to have a roof over my head."

The second passage is more impressive and memorable because it describes the skills the writer learned in more detail and recounts a specific story that supports her claim that her community service changed her and made her more helpful.

Step 7: Finish Strong

Just as you started your essay in a way that would grab readers' attention, you want to finish your essay on a strong note as well. A good way to end your essay is to state again the impact your work had on you, your community, or both. Reiterate how you changed as a result of your community service, why you found the work important, or how it helped others.

Compare these two concluding statements:

"In conclusion, I learned a lot from my community service at my local museum, and I hope to keep volunteering and learning more about history."

"To conclude, volunteering at my city's American History Museum has been a great experience. By leading tours and participating in special events, I became better at public speaking and am now more comfortable starting conversations with people. In return, I was able to get more community members interested in history and our local museum. My interest in history has deepened, and I look forward to studying the subject in college and hopefully continuing my volunteer work at my university's own museum."

The second passage takes each point made in the first passage and expands upon it. In a few sentences, the second passage is able to clearly convey what work the volunteer did, how she changed, and how her volunteer work benefited her community.

The author of the second passage also ends her essay discussing her future and how she'd like to continue her community service, which is a good way to wrap things up because it shows your readers that you are committed to community service for the long-term.

What's Next?

Are you applying to a community service scholarship or thinking about it? We have a complete list of all the community service scholarships available to help get your search started!

Do you need a community service letter as well? We have a step-by-step guide that will tell you how to get a great reference letter from your community service supervisor.

Thinking about doing community service abroad? Before you sign up, read our guide on some of the hazards of international volunteer trips and how to know if it's the right choice for you.

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Importance of Volunteerism Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Need to write an essay about volunteering? Community service is a truly hot topic! This argumentative essay about the importance of volunteerism contains everything necessary to inspire you!

Introduction

Importance of volunteering.

It is so disappointing that many people within our societies do not know, understand or value the importance of services in the community by volunteering. Serving society is very important in helping to solve many problems, especially those that have been neglected by the government and other social programs.

Volunteering to serve the community is not only beneficial to the individuals involved, but it is necessary in creating better societies for all. For instance, community members may volunteer to clean up a town near them or feeder roads.

This way, all members benefit by living in a clean environment that is free from illnesses related to sanitation. By cleaning the compounds surrounding them, society members help promote the health of their young ones who are always playing, during which time they can eat anything on the ground which would have otherwise caused them serious infections.

Community work does not always revolve around environmental work, but it is equally important for the fortunate members of society to help those who are less fortunate. Community members may volunteer to offer gifts and other services to help the less fortunate ones.

For example, people may contribute goods such as clothes and food to help the street children who have no homes or take them to children’s homes from where they can be provided for. This way, the members of society will have helped others live a more and better comfortable life.

Especially young children will feel the love that they never got from their parents. This is essential in the growth and development of a child, and the assistance and love they receive from society will surely help them grow to be better adults in society (Landry 1).

Volunteer work in our societies basically involves sharing and friendship through which people can find out what others need so that they can work on assisting them in all ways possible. Through volunteer work, many people’s lives are changed, be it through words or material assistance.

For instance, a community may volunteer to help young people addicted to drugs where they organize meetings with them, and doctors or psychiatrists volunteer to talk to them about the effects of drugs as the community helps them avoid the vise by giving them jobs to keep them busy.

Being responsive to the needs of other people makes us realize and appreciate humanity and spiritual being, as well as feeling good for changing someone’s life. This can even help shy people gain self-esteem. Volunteering in society work helps in promoting and building our social obligations as human beings.

Through community volunteer work, people are able to respect each because they work together without any discrimination. Volunteerism can be thought of as a social capital where everyone is concerned for the well-being of others. It also helps create trust and confidence between society members and brings society together (McHenry 1).

A society where people volunteer and work together always faces fewer problems since all the members tend to get along well and support each when they are in need.

The security of society is also improved, especially through the rehabilitation of street children and drug addicts who are more likely to cause insecurity in society. By supporting each other, society members can live in harmony and be happier than those societies that do not work together.

Importance of Volunteering: FAQ

• What Is Volunteer Work? Volunteering is unpaid work done by a person to benefit the community. In other words, volunteering means that someone is giving their time to help an individual, a group of people, or a non-profit organization.
• Why Is Volunteerism Important? Volunteer work develops and improves the community. Besides, it is helpful for the one who deals with it. Volunteering can improve one’s mental health, reduce stress, and give meaning to their life.
• How Does Volunteerism Benefit the Community? Volunteering is related to the need for people to participate in their community and be important to others. Imbued with such values as reciprocity, solidarity, and mutual trust, it significantly improves the quality of life.

Works Cited

Landry, L. “The importance of volunteering.” 2002. Web.

McHenry, W. “ The Importance of Community Service . ” 2000. Web.

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Tips for Writing a Standout Community Service Essay

←6 Diversity College Essay Examples

How to Write the “Why This Major” College Essay→

Through your college applications process, you’re likely to come across the term “community service” many times. In fact, you may be asked to write an essay about it. This post will cover the specifics of a community service essay and how to go about writing one, including what to cover and common mistakes to avoid. 

What is a Community Service Essay?

You may encounter the community service essay as you’re writing your supplemental essays for college. These are school-specific prompts that only go to the college that requests them, unlike the personal statement , which goes to every school you apply to. Not all schools require community service essays, but several do. It’s also a common requirement for scholarship applications, especially if it’s a school-specific merit scholarship. 

The community service essay is an essay that describes the initiatives you have taken outside of the classroom to benefit your community. In a 2018 survey of 264 admissions leaders across the US, 58% said that community service is a tie-breaker between students who are otherwise equally qualified. The community service essay offers you the opportunity to shine light on the work you have done to make an impact on the world and people around you, and is an additional way to help you stand out among other applicants. 

Approaching the Community Service Essay 

Understand the essay requirements  .

As with any essay, it’s important to first understand what is expected of your essay. For a start, elements to pay attention to include: 

• Length requirements
• Focus or subject of the essay prompt 
• Organization of the essay 

Although all community service essays ultimately have the same purpose of having you describe your local service activities, they can come with different types of prompts. Below are three sample prompts. Note the differences in topic specificity, length requirements, and breadth of the prompt. 

From the CGCS – Bernard Harris Scholarship Program: 

Please describe a meaningful volunteer or community service experience, including what you learned from participating.

From the University of California Application :

What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? (350 words).

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words.

Brainstorming for your community service essay 

Once you have an understanding of what is required of the specific you are to write, the next step is to brainstorm ideas for a specific topic. If you have various community-engaged service experiences under your belt, consider the following before you finalize your decision. 

The best topics:

Are substantial in length and scope. It’s better to cover a long-term commitment than a one-off afternoon at the food pantry or animal shelter. 

Are transformative or inspiring. Although community service is “others”-oriented, colleges are looking to learn more about you. The ideal community service essay topic should be an experience that changed or challenged your perspective, and was ultimately fulfilling. 

Illustrate personal qualities or passions that you want to highlight. Given the specific prompt, and taking the rest of your application into consideration, which personal interests do you want to highlight? Which activity illuminates the personal quality that you want to bring attention to? 

These are all elements to consider before you begin writing your essay. 

Tips for Writing Your Community Service Essay 

1. include anecdotes.

Anecdotes are a great way to begin your essay, not only as a way to grab your reader’s attention, but by launching right into the experience of your service activity. You can start with a line about a particularly busy afternoon at the orphanage, or a morning cleaning up the streets after a storm, or the sense of accomplishment you felt when you watched a dog under your care at the animal shelter get adopted. 

2. Show, don’t tell 

We’re sure you’ve heard this axiom of general writing before, but it applies to college essays just as much as with any other piece of writing. Opt for evocative examples over plain explaining whenever possible. Take this sentence: “There was a lot of food waste at our school cafeteria.” It’s not nearly as powerful as this description: “I peered into the tall, gray trash cans to inspect the mountain of Styrofoam trays and discarded food. There were countless pizza crusts, globs of green beans, and unopened cartons of milk.” 

Anyone could write the first sentence, and it’s not a unique experience. In the second description, we’re shown the scene of the writer’s lunchroom. We get a peek into their perspective and life, which makes the writing more vivid and relatable. Aim to bring your reader into your world as much as possible.

3. Share your responsibilities and accomplishments.

The more tangible your community service activities feel to the reader, the more powerful your essay will be. Concretize your work by stating the basic details of what kind of work you did and what your duties involved, where it was based, when you began working, and the amount of time you spent working. 

Be sure to quantify your work and accomplishments when possible; it’s better to say your fundraiser yielded 125 books than “a large number” of books. It’s important to also elaborate on why the work you did matters. Why was it important? Did the books you collected or purchased after the fundraiser expand the library of the local orphanage that they already had, or did it offer the children easy access to books that wasn’t available previously? Be specific and detailed.  

4. Highlight what you learned and how you’ll use those lessons moving forward. 

Towards the end of your essay, you’ll want to share how you benefited from the community service work you did. This is an important part of the essay, because it shows how you are able to distill your experiences to applicable lessons in your own life. 

Think of this section in two potential parts: skills you learned, and personal development. Did you gain any hard skills, such as public speaking, poster design, or funds management? Then think about how you developed as an individual. Are you more empathetic or patient now? 

Things to Avoid in Your Community Service Essay 

1. don’t list out everything that happened..

You want to keep your essay well-structured and concise. This isn’t a résumé, or a play-by-play of the entire experience. Stick to the most telling details and anecdotes from your experience. 

2. Avoid using a pretentious or privileged tone.

Humility goes a long way, and entitlement can be smelled from afar. The purpose of this essay is not to paint yourself as a savior of any kind, but rather to show what’s important to you in your non-academic life, and how you approach solving real-world and interpersonal problems. 

3. Avoid clichés.

It may be tempting to quote famous people, but doing so can easily seem like a shortcut, plus it shows little of who you are. Try also to steer clear of trite and vague life lesson lines such as “I learned that people can be happy with so little,” or “I learned the importance of giving back.” Not only do they carry a tone of privilege, they are also sweeping general conclusions and don’t convey anything specific of what you learned. 

Community service is only a part of the college application process, which can be daunting and confusing. CollegeVine will help you navigate each step of the process, from building a college list, to calculating your chances at each school using our chancing engine. Create your free account and get started now !

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August 1, 2022

How To Share Your Volunteer Experience With Colleges & Scholarship Officials

Written by: Paige Mast

Volunteering is an essential factor that helps you stand out on college and scholarship applications. 

Volunteering helps you learn so many different things like teamwork, leadership, and compassion. Plus, you’re not just “learning” these things when you’re volunteering — you’re BECOMING these things! Articulating your personal development through volunteering is a great way to stand out in a sea of applications.

It is important to remember that volunteering is not just about the hours; it is also the experience. When you use the Givefinity app, you can enter all your stories, experiences, and hours to easily create a compelling Volunteer Report! 

Why is volunteering important for college applications?

This Tik Tok from Collegewise discusses why volunteering is important for juniors and seniors in high school, as well as current college students. 

In this video, she says, “Colleges aren’t impressed by how many hours you’re volunteering.” At first, that was puzzling to hear! Sure, the amount of time spent volunteering is important… but what is most important is why you spent that time volunteering. 

Here are some questions to ask yourself when volunteering:

• What is the backstory? Why did you decide to volunteer in that specific area?
• How much did this experience impact you? Others?
• WHY was it so impactful?

Keep these questions in mind when you apply for colleges and scholarships. Remember, it is about what you experienced, not how many hours you worked. 

How to write about your volunteer experience for college

College applications are a crucial point in your college career — the beginning! 

When applying to your chosen college, you need to know a lot of information. More than the number of hours, you’ll need to know specific details about your volunteering activities. Whenever you are at a volunteer activity be sure to take pictures, journal, or even capture videos. The Givefinity app is helpful with this because you can log all of the information needed into the app! 

When colleges look at your documents, they do not want to read that you just volunteered and that was it. They want to know who, what, where, and how:

• Who did you volunteer with? Did you go with others? Who made you decide this was an experience you wanted? Who did you meet? Who impacted you the most?
• What did you do? What did you learn? What do you wish you could do more of? 
• Where did you go? Where else can you volunteer?
• How did you find this volunteering organization or opportunity? How did you feel before and after? How did this affect you in the short term and long term? 

It is important to remember to tell a story about how it was not a “me experience” but a “them experience” (this is why we love our Givefinity hashtag # BetterMeBetterWe ). Although your volunteer experiences have to do with YOU, it is mainly about what you did for OTHERS. 

Don’t forget: this is a mutual experience for both you and the people impacted by your efforts. Share how your volunteer work is helping others, as well as how you learned and developed personally. 

Tips for writing about volunteering

When you sit down to write your essays, look back at pictures, videos, and notes you captured over the years. It can be hard to remember details when you’ve been volunteering with several organizations over a long period of time. 

The Givefinity app will help ease that difficulty when writing! When using the app, you can put those pictures and notes right into your volunteer hour log.

As you walk down volunteer-memory-lane and look for essay inspiration, here are our top tips:

• Share what you felt at a specific moment. Sentimental details are crucial! It never hurts to write about a moment you felt was tender when volunteering. 
• All volunteer work is important, no matter how small! Any experience could be significant enough to mention, even if it seems like a blip on your volunteering report. However, if it is a shorter experience, be sure to emphasize why it is important. 
• Make a connection to your volunteer work and desired area of study. Tell a story that shows how your volunteer efforts have helped you hone in on something you love! Even if a volunteer opportunity does not align with your work, major, minor, etc., perhaps you still learned something that helped you on your journey. 
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help! When you write essays, it is important to ask for help. Submitting an essay to a scholarship or college application representative means you should be entering your best work. Always solicit feedback and criticism on your essay from peers, parents, teachers, and others.

What to emphasize when writing your essay

It is important to remember some of these important points when writing an essay, such as:

• The name of the organization
• How often or when did you volunteer with them? Was it per day, week, or month? How many hours did you volunteer?
• Why do you volunteer with them? What made you choose that organization? 
• Is this for school, work, etc.?
• Did you take any leadership roles?

If you already know your major and are volunteering before college, try to align the volunteer work with that major. It is also important to mention any learning opportunities and what you’ve already gained through that experience. 

How to share your volunteering experience with college or scholarship officials

In this day and age, it is easy to find any kind of scholarship. You can even get a scholarship or money by making a prom outfit out of duct tape! So, with volunteering, be sure to choose activities that help you stand out. 

When looking for scholarships, it is as simple as searching for “scholarships for volunteering”. Many common applications ask on the application about any activities done, like volunteering! Remember to put down experience that lines up with your potential degree first.

The Givefinity app is helpful when sharing volunteering experiences. When you use the app, you can share these volunteering hours with yourself or others of importance. So make your life a little easier — download the Givefinity app today and get ahead of the ball on tracking your volunteer hours!

Paige Mast is the author of the Some Random Gal blog and is currently a student at Middle Tennessee State University. Check out her blog to learn about college & life lessons through her eyes.

Read More Articles & Resources from Givefinity

Stand Out in the Common App: The Importance of Highlighting Your High School Volunteer Experiences

As summer winds down and August approaches, high school students are preparing for one of the most exciting times of their academic careers: college applications! The Common Application, or Common App, which goes live on August 1st, opens the door to a world of opportunities for your future. According to Forbes, for the 2023-2024 academic school year, 4 year institutions 1,244,476 distinct first-year applicants had applied to 841 colleges participating in the Common App. With thousands of students applying to colleges across the country, how can you make your application stand out? One key way to differentiate yourself is by showcasing your high school volunteer experiences. Here’s why highlighting your volunteer work is crucial and how Givefinity can help you do it effectively.

Transitioning from Summer to School Volunteering: How to Keep Stress at Bay and Embrace the New School Year with a Positive Attitude

As the golden days of summer draw to a close, the anticipation of a new school year begins to build. For students who have spent their summer break engaging in meaningful volunteer work, the transition back to school can feel overwhelming. Balancing academic responsibilities with ongoing volunteer commitments might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it’s entirely manageable. Here’s how to keep stress at bay and put forward a positive attitude as you transition from summer to school volunteering.

Make the Most of Your Summer: How to Get Involved in Meaningful Volunteer Work

Summer is the perfect time to step away from your daily routine and dive into new opportunities for growth and giving back. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or someone looking to make a difference, summer offers a wealth of chances to engage in volunteer work. Here’s how you can make the most of your summer with meaningful volunteer experiences!

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What I Learned From Volunteering

August 27, 2014

Dylan volunteering in Boston, Mass.

This post should really be called: “How I learned more about my community and humanity once I stepped outside my college classroom.” You see, going to college in the heart of a city has an abundance of advantages, and many students are quick to take a big gulp of all the opportunities presented by the fast-paced, busy, and unique city landscape.

While internship opportunities, professional networking events for soon-to-be post grads, company hosted events at local restaurants and bars, and higher education possibilities are readily available and most likely taken advantage of by eager 20-somethings, taking time to volunteer at the many nonprofit social/environmental justice organizations, homeless shelters, advocacy centers, philanthropic fundraisers, local schools and child care facilities that complete the city of Boston are not always at the forefront of young people’s minds while navigating through their college experiences.

But, with a little push from student organizations, local nonprofits and passionate individuals, volunteerism and community change can start to take a front seat and become not just an opportunity, but also a priority in the lives of young people.

Volunteerism, civic engagement and advocacy are the driving forces for creating change and making a positive impact in your community and society at large. While gaining internship and job experience can lead to community impact and social change, it’s important for us to remember that before we start advocating for change and informing others about issues we care about, we need to fully understand the complexity and depth of the social, environmental, or economic issue we are passionate about.

Not only do we need to understand the ‘issue’ or ‘societal problem’ that many people face and are impacted by every day, but we need to meet and work alongside those whose daily realities are shaped by injustices, while not creating any divides or barriers in the process. Everyday people are affected by the issues that organizations fight for or against, and once we realize how people-centered things like advocacy, outreach and service are, I believe young people will realize their call to action and their potential in their local landscapes to really affect change.

My Experience

For example: Recently I had a very unique volunteer gig. A few times a semester I would take the Red Line to Quincy to volunteer at the   Prison Book Program , where I would read letters from incarcerated individuals from all over the country and find 2-3 books that match their interests and reading criteria. Opening each letter and hearing people’s stories reminded me of the harsh realities of our world today, and the difficulty many people face in preserving their human dignity and self-worth. (Left. Dylan volunteering in Boston, Mass.)

Whether guilty of crimes or innocent, our incarceration system is an issue that many activists rally around in terms of its success and promise in correcting and rehabilitating criminal behavior. So, to read letters and hear the voices of those who are living on the marginalized edges of our society, but who rarely have a voice in the issue that’s being nationally rallied around, is an uncommon circumstance that should be noted and have more attention and action drawn to. Their desire to educate themselves within the confines of a prison wall is real and heard by those of us who take time to spend their weekday evenings in the bottom of a church basement, sorting through donated books, and reading literary wish-lists of those who are incarcerated.

Another meaningful experience that sticks out to me is when I regularly volunteered at a children’s homeless shelter in Roxbury, Mass. for two years, and was reminded of the fact that the statistics we hear every day about homelessness are real people – not just numbers. Every child I played alongside, made a puzzle with, and created art work for, reminded me that the largest percentage of people who are homeless is in fact, not the men people see on the street who are waiting in line for the soup kitchen, but families: Mothers, children of all ages, infants, and fathers.

I was reminded that every human and every family deserves a place to call a home, a place to grow up, and a place to feel safe and comfortable. Helping the shelter to provide an afternoon of safety, comfort, respect, and joy for children who don’t have a home or much stability was a small but meaningful contribution to a much greater familial and societal obstacle.

What I Learned

I learned from my volunteer experiences in Boston that people are not powerless; in fact, we have a great deal of power and potential, despite sometimes being told we may not have any because of the zip code we were born in, economic status, family life, sexual orientation, or employment status. Through the volunteering I made as a priority and a cornerstone of my life in college, I learned how empowering it is to realize how much agency you have in your own life and how beautiful it is to share that with others in hopes of them discovering it themselves.

I learned how giving human beings are, even when they don’t have much to give. I learned how one of the biggest equalizers of our society is storytelling and the sharing of self. We open countless doors of understanding, compassion, education, and empathy when we let the chaos and speed of the cityscape subside, and take time to actively listen and communicate with our community members. Our community is a diverse fabric of human beings, and we all have a voice in enacting change, improving the lives of our neighbors, and promoting a more just and verdant world.

I learned that local nonprofit organizations have the potential to   amplify their outreach to colleges, and young people in general , through matching passions with skills. You as organizations need to purposefully identify for us why promoting service and civic engagement is not only important, but necessary if we want to improve our lives, the lives of others, and the dilemmas and misfortunes our world faces every day.

The relationship between young people and nonprofits can be the start of a significant change in our community, and should be a reciprocal and powerful educational experience. An open-minded and encouraging flow of communication between organizations and community members can be the launchpad for the social and environmental change organizations talk about and try for every day. Together, we can make change – not just a semblance of idealism, but reality, as well.

How does your organization engage with college students and young adults? Share what you’ve learned in the comments!

Dylan Manderlink is a recent graduate of Emerson College in Boston, Mass., who with a self-designed major, Investigative Theatre for Social Change. She is now a Teach for America corps member, teaching high school in rural Arkansas. She is passionate about working in the nonprofit sector and providing educational opportunities for students to creatively inform themselves and others about social justice, community change and human r

Topics: inspiration

Written by Shari Tishman

Shari led Online Marketing and Communications at VolunteerMatch from 2010-2015. After working with nonprofits for 9 years, she moved over to the corporate sector and is now leading Inbound Marketing for a tech company in San Francisco.

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How Volunteering Has Changed My Life. by David

Davidof Milwaukee's entry into Varsity Tutor's May 2018 scholarship contest

How Volunteering Has Changed My Life. by David - May 2018 Scholarship Essay

As a typical and sometimes self-centered college student, I have lived most of my teen and young adult life believing the world centers around me and my needs. My world changed when I began volunteering. What started out as something I had to do to pass a class became something I am now passionate about and plan to continue for the remainder of my life. I believe that all high school and college students should be required to volunteer for at least one semester. Volunteering encourages young people to think of others and become compassionate young adults. It is the perfect way to discover something you may be really good at as you develop a new skill. Volunteering brings together a diverse range of people from all walks of life. It has help me to gain perspective on life as there is no better way to understand the values of helping people in need. I have gained a newfound respect for the young men and women who are serving our country through my experience with Give 2 The Troops. While preparing care packages for our troops and viewing the photos of our soldiers serving overseas, I realized how much they endure for our freedom, and how much the little things that we may take for granted here can mean to them. Another great experience that changed my perspective on life was working in the cardiac intensive care unit of our local hospital. Because I don’t have a medical background or special training, all I can offer patients is a smile and someone to talk with while they wait. And yet, this seems to be enough for so many of the families I encountered. Having watched many family members lose a loved one, I have come to realize how precious my life is and how each day is truly a gift. In conclusion, I got out of my world and stepped into the world of others. And I don’t plan for these to be my only volunteer experiences. I will continue to work through different organizations in many areas. The short amount of time I give pales in comparison to what I have gained from these experiences. I think all students should gain a better understanding of the world around them if they are required to volunteer for just a semester. The world will be a much better place for it, and I feel sure that many will decide, as I did, to continue with the effort!

Essay Papers Writing Online

Exploring the impact of community service – a comprehensive essay sample.

Community service plays a vital role in shaping individuals and communities. Engaging in service activities not only helps those in need but also has a profound impact on the volunteers themselves. By giving back to the community, individuals can develop empathy, leadership skills, and a sense of responsibility towards society.

In this essay sample, we will explore inspiring examples of community service projects and provide tips on how you can get involved in making a difference. From volunteering at local shelters to organizing charity events, there are countless ways to contribute to your community and create a positive impact on the world around you. Let’s delve into the world of community service and discover the power of giving back!

Community Service Essay Sample

Community service is a valuable activity that allows individuals to give back to their communities. It provides an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others while also developing important skills and values. Here is a sample essay that highlights the benefits of community service and reflects on personal experiences.

Introduction: Community service is an essential part of being an active and engaged member of society. It not only benefits the community but also helps individuals grow and learn. Through my involvement in various community service projects, I have seen firsthand the power of giving back and the joy it brings to both the recipient and the volunteer.

Body: One example of the impact of community service is the work I did at a local soup kitchen. By volunteering at the soup kitchen, I was able to help provide meals to those in need and offer a listening ear to those who were struggling. This experience taught me the importance of empathy and compassion, and showed me how even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life.

Another example of the benefits of community service is the time I spent tutoring children at a local elementary school. Through this experience, I was able to help students improve their academic skills and build their confidence. I also gained a greater appreciation for the value of education and the impact it can have on a child’s future.

Conclusion: In conclusion, community service is a valuable and rewarding activity that allows individuals to make a positive impact on their communities. Through my experiences with community service, I have learned important lessons about empathy, compassion, and the power of giving back. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to volunteer and look forward to continuing to serve my community in the future.

Inspiring Examples and Tips

When it comes to community service, there are countless inspiring examples that can motivate you to get involved. Whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, organizing a charity event, or tutoring underprivileged children, these acts of service can make a real impact on the community.

Here are a few tips to help you get started on your community service journey:

1. Find a Cause You’re Passionate About: Choose a cause that resonates with you personally. When you care deeply about the issue you’re working on, your efforts will be more meaningful and impactful.

2. Start Small: You don’t have to take on huge projects right away. Start small by volunteering for a few hours a week or helping out at a local event. Every little bit helps.

3. Collaborate with Others: Community service is often more effective when done as a team. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues to join you in your efforts.

4. Stay Consistent: Make a commitment to regularly engage in community service. Consistency is key to making a lasting impact.

5. Reflect on Your Impact: Take the time to reflect on how your service is making a difference. Celebrate your achievements and learn from your challenges.

By following these tips and drawing inspiration from others, you can make a meaningful contribution to your community through service. Get started today and see the positive impact you can have!

Why Community Service Matters

Community service is an essential component of a well-rounded individual. It provides an opportunity to give back to society, make a positive impact on the community, and develop valuable skills and experiences. Engaging in community service helps individuals cultivate empathy, compassion, and a sense of civic responsibility. By volunteering and helping others, individuals can learn to appreciate the needs of others and work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society.

Furthermore, community service allows individuals to build connections with others and foster a sense of community. Through collaboration and teamwork, volunteers can develop important social and communication skills that are valuable in all aspects of life. Community service also provides a way to explore new interests, gain new perspectives, and expand one’s horizons.

Moreover, community service is a way to address pressing social issues and contribute to positive change. By participating in community service projects, individuals can make a tangible difference in the lives of others and work towards creating a more just and equitable world. Community service is a powerful tool for promoting social justice, equality, and human rights.

In conclusion, community service matters because it helps individuals grow personally, develop important skills, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to a better society. Engaging in community service is a fulfilling and impactful way to make a difference in the world and leave a lasting legacy of service and compassion.

Benefits of Engaging in Community Service

Engaging in community service offers a wide range of benefits both for the individual and the community as a whole.

1. Personal Growth: Community service allows individuals to step out of their comfort zones, develop new skills, and gain valuable life experiences. It helps enhance empathy, compassion, and understanding of diverse perspectives.

2. Social Connections: By participating in community service activities, individuals can build strong relationships with like-minded individuals and expand their social network. It provides opportunities to collaborate with others and work towards common goals.

3. Skill Development: Community service offers a platform for individuals to develop and hone various skills such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. These skills are transferable to other aspects of life.

4. Civic Engagement: Engaging in community service promotes active citizenship and a sense of responsibility towards one’s community. It allows individuals to contribute to positive change and make a meaningful impact on society.

5. Personal Fulfillment: Giving back to the community and helping those in need can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose to individuals. It provides a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction knowing that one has made a positive difference in the lives of others.

Overall, engaging in community service not only benefits the community by addressing various social issues but also contributes to personal growth, social connections, skill development, civic engagement, and personal fulfillment.

How to Choose the Right Community Service Project

When deciding on a community service project, it is important to consider your interests, skills, and the needs of your community. Here are some tips to help you choose the right project:

• Identify your passion: Think about what causes or issues you feel strongly about. Whether it’s helping the environment, supporting education, or assisting the elderly, choosing a project that aligns with your passions will keep you motivated and engaged.
• Evaluate your skills: Consider what skills you have to offer. Are you good at organizing events, teaching, or fundraising? Select a project that allows you to utilize your strengths and make a meaningful impact.
• Assess the community’s needs: Research and assess the needs of your community. Talk to local organizations, schools, or community leaders to identify areas where help is most needed. By addressing pressing needs, your project will have a greater impact.
• Consider the time commitment: Be realistic about the time you can dedicate to a community service project. Choose a project that fits into your schedule and allows you to make a consistent contribution over time.
• Collaborate with others: Consider teaming up with friends, classmates, or colleagues to take on a community service project together. Working as a team can help divide tasks, share responsibilities, and create a stronger impact.

By following these tips and considering your interests, skills, and community needs, you can choose the right community service project that aligns with your values and makes a positive difference in your community.

Steps to Writing an Effective Community Service Essay

If you are tasked with writing a community service essay, follow these steps to ensure it is impactful and engaging:

• Choose a meaningful community service experience: Select a service project that has had a significant impact on you or your community.
• Reflect on your experience: Take time to think about the lessons learned, challenges faced, and personal growth from the service project.
• Outline your essay: Create a clear outline that includes an introduction, body paragraphs detailing your experiences, and a conclusion that ties everything together.
• Show, don’t tell: Use descriptive language and vivid examples to bring your community service experience to life for the reader.
• Highlight your personal growth: Discuss how the community service experience has shaped your values, beliefs, and future goals.
• Connect your experience to the broader community: Share how your service has impacted those around you and the community as a whole.
• Revise and edit your essay: Review your essay for clarity, coherence, and grammar errors. Make revisions as needed to strengthen your message.
• Seek feedback: Ask someone you trust to read your essay and provide constructive feedback for improvement.
• Finalize your essay: Make any final adjustments and ensure your essay is polished and reflects your authentic voice.

Community Service Essay Structure

When writing a community service essay, it is important to follow a structured approach to ensure that your message is clear and impactful. Here is a recommended structure to help you organize your thoughts and create a compelling essay:

• Introduction: Start with a strong opening sentence that grabs the reader’s attention. Introduce the topic of community service and provide some context for your personal experience.
• Background Information: Briefly explain what community service means to you and why you chose to engage in it. Provide background information on the organization or cause you volunteered for.
• Personal Experience: Share specific examples of your community service activities. Describe the impact you made, challenges you faced, and lessons you learned. Highlight any skills or qualities that you developed through your volunteer work.
• Reflection: Reflect on how your community service experience has influenced your personal growth and perspective on the world. Discuss any changes in your attitudes or values as a result of your volunteer work.
• Impact: Describe the positive impact your community service has had on others. Share stories of individuals or communities that benefitted from your efforts.
• Conclusion: Summarize the key points of your essay and reiterate the importance of community service. End with a powerful closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

By following this structure, you can effectively communicate the value of community service and inspire others to make a difference in their communities. Remember to be sincere, reflective, and passionate in your writing to convey the true essence of your volunteer experience.

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2,000 impressions, or, why I promote my UN Volunteer experience

Year 2019. One day, in the middle of my active search for opportunities to serve the Sustainable Development Agenda, I see a national UN Volunteer Communications Officer opening with the UN Development Programme in Azerbaijan. I read the description, thinking "this is about me!" and applied immediately... and so my journey began. It’s been more than a year now since that day, and I can proudly say that I am where I am supposed to be.

Year 2020. After this one-year life-changing journey, I got my certificate and shared it on my LinkedIn profile, tagging the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme. With that another exciting journey began: people from all over the world started liking, sharing and asking me to talk through my experience with them. From Africa to Asia, more than 2,000 people felt inspired by two simple sentences I wrote when sharing my UN Volunteer Certificate of Service. They sent me questions, asking me to explain the steps I had taken to get the assignment and to share my own vision of the process. Enjoy the ride (or read?).

How do I apply?  The answer is simple: go to vmam.unv.org . Provide basic info about yourself, register your profile and start filling it out with further details about your studies, internships and work. Share everything a hiring agency needs to know about you and your background. Then you check the  special calls page , where all vacancies are listed. There are several categories for volunteers such as University, Youth, Specialist or Expert -- in  national or international assignments (I was a national Volunteer). There is an "Apply" button which you can click to "officially run" for a chosen position, but please be 100 per cent sure that you are "the one". Your drive and inspiration are key factors for success when you become a volunteer.

What does the hiring process look like?  I was ready to do everything for the process go smoothly and be accepted for my dream assignment. So, first, you apply. Then if you make it to the shortlist of the candidates, a test assignment is sent to you to check your capabilities (this part may differ from agency to agency). If successful in the test, you may be invited to a panel interview. The awesome news is that on the UN website, they have the competency-based interview questions to help you prepare. 

What skills do they require from me as a UN Volunteer?  There is no specific answer to this, I would say. Different positions have different requirements. From your side just be sure that you are "the one" for the position. Read the description of assignment carefully. Work on yourself and be prepared.

Does my little experience with volunteering affect my UNV application?  Before my UN Volunteer assignment, I did a little volunteering, but not officially. Ii is important to understand the added value of volunteerism and be inspired by the rewards volunteering brings, like the opportunity to learn, meet new people, have new experiences and help others.

How can I volunteer in my country?  On the page https://www.unv.org/special-calls you can filter the calls by countries and see if there are any assignments in your country at the moment.

Can I apply to be a volunteer in another country?  Of course, you can! You need to apply for international UN Volunteer assignments.

What is the age limit?  For Expert Volunteers there is a minimum age of 35 years, for National Specialists - 22, and for International Specialists - 25; for UN Youth Volunteers the age range is between 18 and 29 years. 

Is the assignment paid?  You receive a volunteer living allowance. In addition to that, you get medical insurance and learning support.

How can I apply for online volunteering?  Good one! There is a separate website for it: onlinevolunteering.org . Check it out for possibilities that you can contribute to. Online volunteering allows organizations and volunteers to team up to address sustainable development challenges – anywhere in the world, from any device. Online volunteering is fast, easy and – most of all – effective.

Dilara Umudova with her former colleague Arzu Jafarli, Communications and External Relations Analyst. ©UN, 2019

People were asking me "Dilara, please, share what UNV promises you?". So I listed several of the most important advantages that the UN Volunteers programme will bring to your life and career when you join it. I hope this list will inspire everyone who is still considering whether volunteering is worth doing. 

• An international community . I think that was the most exciting part when I was applying for this assignment.
• Immense experience. Looking back at that only one-year experience and my achievements, I saw how much I’ve grown in such a short period of time... and my CV could barely accommodate the real growth I experienced.
• Stress resilience and fast decision making. There were times when I would complete work assignments and afterwards wonder how I managed. There were times when I was not sure, but did it anyway to learn from my mistakes, if I had taken the wrong decision. You just learn to be more flexible than ever.
• Mentors for life. Every person you meet in the UN has a purpose of serving for justice and peace in their country, region and in the world. An intern or a senior employee, each of them knows exactly what they want to achieve and will gladly support you.
• New goals and ambitious perspectives. During my one-year assignment, my most important achievements were related to the women's empowerment and gender projects. So, I was into this issue more than ever. As a result, when I got an offer from a project working to end violence against women and girls in Azerbaijan, I immediately said yes, and here I am working with the amazing team at UNDP Azerbaijan team to achieve this goal.

Dilara (third from left) and her colleagues on United Nations Day. ©UN, 2019

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Essay on Volunteering

Students are often asked to write an essay on Volunteering in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Volunteering

Introduction.

Volunteering is a selfless activity where individuals give their time and energy to help others. It’s a way to contribute to society without expecting any monetary rewards.

Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering has many benefits. It helps develop new skills, build strong relationships, and foster a sense of community. It also boosts self-esteem and happiness.

In conclusion, volunteering is a noble act that benefits both the individual and society. It’s a great way to make a positive difference in the world.

Also check:

250 Words Essay on Volunteering

Volunteering, an altruistic activity where individuals or groups provide services for no financial gain, is a cornerstone of modern society. It is a means of promoting goodwill, fostering social cohesion, and enhancing personal development.

The Essence of Volunteering

Volunteering is not just about giving. It’s a two-way street, offering profound experiences that can change the way we view the world. It provides a sense of purpose, a chance to contribute to a cause we’re passionate about, and an opportunity to connect with diverse communities.

The Impact of Volunteering

The impact of volunteering extends beyond the individual, influencing societal structures. It can bridge the gap between different socio-economic groups, fostering understanding and empathy. In addition, it bolsters community resilience by promoting social integration and providing essential services.

Personal Growth through Volunteering

Volunteering also cultivates personal growth. It enhances skills, broadens perspectives, and fosters a sense of accomplishment. It can boost self-esteem, improve leadership abilities, and promote a sense of belonging, which are essential for mental well-being.

In conclusion, volunteering is an invaluable aspect of our society. It not only contributes to social cohesion and community resilience but also fosters personal growth and development. As we engage in volunteering, we become agents of change, shaping a more compassionate and understanding world.

500 Words Essay on Volunteering

Volunteering is a selfless act, where individuals invest their time, energy, and skills to assist others without expecting any monetary compensation. It is a powerful vehicle for delivering a significant impact in communities and societies. Volunteering can be seen as a journey of personal, professional, and social growth, and it has profound benefits not only for the recipients but also for the volunteers themselves.

Volunteering has a transformative effect on society. It fosters a sense of community, encourages social inclusion, and contributes to a healthier society. When individuals volunteer, they become active agents of change, addressing societal issues like poverty, illiteracy, and inequality. They contribute to the development of resilient communities by providing essential services, building capacities, and promoting social cohesion.

Personal Growth and Development

On a personal level, volunteering provides a platform for individuals to develop new skills, gain practical experience, and build a network of contacts. It helps in personal growth by enhancing self-confidence, fostering empathy, and promoting a sense of achievement. Volunteering can also be a stepping stone to new opportunities, offering a chance to explore different career paths and gain valuable work experience.

Volunteering and Mental Health

Volunteering has been proven to have significant mental health benefits. It provides a sense of purpose and helps combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. Engaging in volunteering activities can improve mood, reduce stress, and even contribute to a longer life. It is a form of social interaction that can help individuals feel connected to their community, thus improving their overall well-being.

Challenges in Volunteering

Despite the numerous benefits, volunteering is not without challenges. Issues such as lack of resources, inadequate training, and limited recognition can hinder the volunteering experience. It is essential for organizations to provide adequate support and resources to volunteers to ensure their efforts are productive and rewarding.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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Volunteer Experience - Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

It is a good thing to be a volunteer. That’s what I learned from my father: the intangible benefits of volunteering such as the satisfaction from helping others and making a difference in the lives of others’ lives. The volunteer work helped my father gain experience in various fields and met many people and became well-known in the neighborhood where we live as a person who loved charity. My father taught me that volunteering work has a great moral value. There are several reasons why my father was determined to volunteer, the most important is that he lived in poverty when he was young.

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• My Volunteering Experience

Volunteering is a powerful experience that can transform not only the lives of the individuals or communities you serve but also your own life. Writing an essay about your volunteer experience can be a meaningful exercise, helping you reflect on your role, the challenges you faced, and the impact you made. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you write a compelling and reflective essay about your volunteer experience.

If you need to write an essay or term paper about volunteer experience and find the task to be overwhelming or challenging, consider seeking help from StudyMoose experts. Their seasoned team of writers is skilled at transforming personal experiences into compelling narratives. Whether you need assistance with organizing your thoughts, refining your thesis, or polishing your essay to perfection, StudyMoose can guide you through the process, ensuring that your paper is not only well-written but also deeply reflective of your unique volunteer journey.

Start with Reflection

Begin by taking some time to reflect on your volunteer experience. Think about why you chose to volunteer, what you hoped to achieve, the tasks you performed, the people you met, and the feelings you experienced. Jot down your thoughts; this will form the basis of your essay.

Develop a Thesis

Your thesis is the main point you want to make about your volunteer experience. Were you transformed by the experience? Did it challenge your preconceptions in any way? Your thesis should encapsulate this core insight in a single, clear statement.

Organize Your Story

Structure your essay like a narrative. Start with an introduction that sets the scene: why and where did you decide to volunteer? The body of your essay should describe your experience, focusing on the most significant moments. Conclude by reflecting on the overall impact of your volunteering.

Use Specific Details

Be specific in your writing. Instead of just saying you helped build a house, describe the feeling of hammering nails, the sweat on your brow, and the smile on the homeowner’s face. Specific details bring your story to life.

Connect to Larger Themes

Relate your personal experience to broader themes. How did your volunteer work illustrate larger societal issues, such as poverty, education, or health care? Making these connections can add depth to your essay.

Edit and Revise

Once your draft is complete, set it aside for a day or two. Then, read it with fresh eyes and revise it. Check for clarity, coherence, and grammar errors, and make sure that your essay effectively communicates your feelings and observations.

The last step is to proofread your essay carefully. Look for typographical errors, grammatical mistakes, and awkward phrasings. Consider having a friend or family member review it as well—they might catch something you missed.

Writing an essay about your volunteer experience is an opportunity to reflect deeply on your journey, the people you’ve served, and the broader implications of your work. Following these steps will not only help you compose a compelling and thoughtful essay but will also allow you to revisit and appreciate the significance of your volunteer experience. Whether you are writing this essay as a school assignment or as a personal reflection, it is a chance to make sense of your role as a volunteer and the impact you have had on both your community and yourself.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Benefits of Volunteering — Volunteering: Personal Experience and Benefits

Volunteering: Personal Experience and Benefits

• Categories: Benefits of Volunteering Personal Experience Volunteering

About this sample

Words: 692 |

Published: Aug 30, 2022

Words: 692 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

• Central Statistics Office, Ireland. Information Society Statistics – Household 2019
• Department of Communications, Climate Action & Environment, Government of Ireland. Getting Citizens Online Grant Scheme
• Duguid F., Mundel K., and Schugurensky D., 2013, Volunteer Work, Informal Learning and Social Action, Sense Publishers, p.67-68
• Kamin M., 2013. Soft Skills Revolution: A Guide for Connecting with Compassion for Trainers, Teams, and Leaders, Center for Creative Leadership , p.8
• Meier S. and Stutzer A., 2006, Is Volunteering Rewarding Itself?, On behalf of The London School of Economics and Political Science and The Suntory and Toyota International Centres for Economics and Related Disciplines. Publisher: Wiley.
• Zack, M.H. and McKenny, 1995. Social Context and Interaction in Ongoing Computer-Supported Management Groups, Organization Science, p.397
• Volunteer Ireland. The impact of volunteering on the health and well-being of the volunteer

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My Volunteering Experience

• Category: Life
• Topic: Community Service

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