Become a Volunteer
Just because volunteer work is unpaid does not mean the skills you learn are basic. Many volunteering opportunities provide extensive training. All tutors are required to complete the equivalent of 20 hours of training (both online and in-person). But tutoring isn’t the only option you have when you volunteer with LLNB. We need volunteers to assist in the following areas.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Most READ NB affiliated councils hold awareness events throughout the year and are looking for volunteers to assist. This may include administration, marketing, social media, and customer service. For instance, this year marks the 6th annual fundraising book sale ‘Bookstravaganza’ for READ NB, which would not be possible without the dozens of volunteers who collect, sort and organize books for the sale during September and October! BOARD/GOVERNANCE Volunteering for the Board of READ NB or one of its affiliated councils gives you the opportunity to practice important skills used in the workplace, such as teamwork, communication, problem solving, project planning, task management, and organization. Board members are as important as staff positions to a non-profit organization and are highly competitive so have your resume ready to apply. THIRD PARTY FUNDRAISING EVENTS Show your independence and altruism by organizing your own event to support READ NB or your local Council (this is called a third-party event). You could run a garage sale, a carwash – the possibilities are only limited by your imagination. In addition to raising money for a good cause, organizing this type of event shows initiative, drive and management skills. Please let the council know what you are planning so they can provide support, if able. |
BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING
Fights the effects of stress & anxiety The social contact aspect of helping and working with others can have a profound effect on your overall psychological well-being. Combats depression Volunteering keeps you in regular contact with others and helps you develop a solid support system, which in turn protects you against depression. Makes you happy By measuring hormones and brain activity, researchers have discovered that being helpful to others delivers immense pleasure. Increases self-confidence You are doing good for others and the community, which provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Provides a sense of purpose Older adults, especially those who have retired or lost a spouse, can find new meaning and direction in their lives by helping others. Keeps you physically healthy Volunteers are less likely to develop high blood pressure, and have better thinking skills. |
CONTACT READ NB
To find out more about how you can become a volunteer call Alison Teague, Coordinator of Provincial Volunteers at 506-381-7090, by email at volunteer@readnb.ca, or toll-free at 1-877-633-8899. |