Want to Meet New People? Volunteer!

Volunteering can be a great way to meet new people. There are many worthy causes that need help, whether for a couple of hours or a longer commitment. You can feel good about donating your time and skills and turn volunteerism into an opportunity to meet someone new.

Meet New People at Home or Abroad

There are many charities you can support by giving of your time. Start by finding a cause that means something to you personally. Visit Web sites of charities and view their volunteer opportunities to find a position that would be suitable for you.
You can become involved by doing office work or stuffing envelopes, walking dogs for a local animal shelter or participating in a walk or run to raise money for your favorite causes. You could even do gardening, visit with a senior, or share a special talent like music.

You can volunteer at home or travel to other countries to donate your time and skills. For example, if you have medical or engineering skills, you may consider offering your services to help with natural disaster relief in places like Japan or Haiti, or even closer to home. Whatever skills you have, you can be a hero to the causes you choose just by giving of your time.

Network While You Volunteer

While you are donating your time and services, you are going to meet a lot of people. You can feel good about the fact that you are helping a charity and enjoy the side effect of having the opportunity to meet new people. Take the time to network and make contacts. Subtly let your new friends know that you would be happy to meet someone and let them make the introductions for you.

The great thing about meeting someone through volunteer work is that you will know that they care about the causes that they are supporting as well. It will give you a great conversation starter because you already know that you have volunteerism as a common interest.

You’ll be able to get to know each other better as you continue to work together on projects that give you mutual satisfaction. When you meet someone who volunteers, you will know that they care about more than themselves.
Volunteering is something that everyone can do. Find a way to contribute time to a cause that you hold dear and enjoy the opportunities to meet new people as they come along.