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5 Self-Serving Reasons to Volunteer
Leading up to the 2004 election, I decided to phone bank for the Kerry/Edwards campaign. What got me in the door was politics, but also, because I hoped to meet someone to date. Okay, a bust on both counts. But it got me in the habit of pro-bono work. On January 17, in honor of Martin Luther King, President Obama is calling for a national day of service. Find an opportunity in your community. Be selfish and become a volunteer. Consider the perks:
1. Learning a new skill
2. Exploring a new neighborhood
3. Cheap way to get out of the house
4. Expanding your social network
5. Feeling genuinely appreciated
Illustration by Justen Renyer
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For the past 12 months I have volunteered for a pet companion program here in Australia. The organisation lines you up with someone who needs their dog walked or assistance in some way for their pet. The owners are elderly or disabled. I started walking just 1 night a week, I now do 3 times a week! It’s great – it ensures I exercise on a regular basis and I know it makes the dog and the owner happy.