Where do you belong?
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Where do you belong?
| Wed, 07-11-2007 - 7:48pm |
I've been thinking about maybe joining something new- a group, organization, etc., but I'm a little hesitant.
| Wed, 07-11-2007 - 7:48pm |
I've been thinking about maybe joining something new- a group, organization, etc., but I'm a little hesitant.
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I'm involved in a couple of horse show associations. This year I haven't really had the time to volunteer with them, but the past few years, I managed some of the shows, designed courses, rounded up volunteers, etc.
I'm heavily involved in veteran's issues - primarily with the Korean War Ex-POW Assn and the VFW Ladies Auxiliary.
Stay away from the Jaycees they are more problems than they are worth. I know a lot of people who were involved in my local chapter and all they do is look to pile all the work on one person. They do have some fun events but mostly I've never heard anyone do anything but complain.
I used to work for a non-profit that dealt with volunteers. I would start out small. Do something at one time a year event. See then from that experience if you like the organization and if you'd like to become more involved. Like start at a Special Olympics day event doing registration or something and talkto some other vols and see if its something you'd like to become more involved in, do it for a few organizations, Race for the Cure, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, etc. They all have more to do than fundraise if that's not your thing (its certainly not mine).
Otherwise look for things like book clubs or movie groups. Someone on here mentioned meetup.com and there are lots of things that are interesting on there that might be of interest to you.
I'm a member of a lot of associations through my work. A lot of associations for government contractors. A very exciting group if you like gray-haired men in suits! What it has opened up to me is lots more volunteer opportunities.
I was able to serve beer to raise money for our local arts center, and meet people that way.
I am also a member of the Chamber of Commerce, and they have lots of networking events. I am also a member of the American Marketing Association and attend monthly luncheons.
Is there a professional association for your line of work? That's always an excellent way to meet people.
Are you interested in politics? Often they have groups for young people who have those political propensities. My friends are always inviting me to their Young Republicans parties, and they know I am super liberal.
If you have an interest in a sport those clubs are always great to join. I keep meaning to join a running club, because I hear they do all sorts of things together and there are always lots of men and not all married! Plus you know they're fit andd healthy and that's a bonus.
Let's us know what seems up your alley.
Beach
I did Habitat for Humanity thru work & it was great fun. I don't know what kind of area you're in, but there shouldn't be any reason not to feel safe. The homeowner usually has to be there working on the house most times anyway, so it's going to be their new neighborhood. I doubt they'd pick a nasty sort of neighborhood to move these people into.
I've always been interested in the Fresh Air Fund. But I'd need a house first, lol. You host city kids at your home, if you don't live in the city. And they go on trips & have a nice summer.
The Peace Corps has a group for staying in the US, not leaving for the 2 year plan. But now I'm having a problem finding the name. Maybe Freedom Corps, although it sounds a bit like what you were describing in the first place. Loosely organized events.
=)
I volunteer once a week at a local aquarium. I've been doing that for 4 yrs at the end of this month, but I'm starting to get tired of it and I'm thinking about quiting sometime, but I haven't mentioned it to anyone because I'm not sure what else I would do. I don't get paid to do it or anything, but something else would be nice and maybe more fun.
I would think that each chapter would be run differently since they all have a different chairman and president.
Isn't it funny how we look at the pictures to tell if it's going to be a good group or not?
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