How to Get Organized When Volunteering

Those who volunteer take time and effort out of personal lives to give something to a group or person without payment. Volunteerism is a boost to self esteem and a benefit to all involved. Volunteering, however, requires the same organization as any other activity or job. Structuring the activities and agreeing with other adults involved does not happen seamlessly, though some volunteers make it look as if the tasks are a breeze.

Instructions

Organize individuals for the task at hand. Assign jobs to people, and assign leaders for each job. The leader will be in charge of supplies and organizing her team members. For example, if the task is painting the town gazebo, one individual can lead a team of sanders to remove old paint, while another individual leads the team to apply the fresh coat of paint.

Arrange files for an ongoing volunteer program. Invest in a file cabinet with hanging folders to keep track of donations, possible payment to volunteers and expenses incurred through the program. Separate documents and keep track of all interactions through the best file system for the volunteer organization.

Utilize computer file systems, such as Microsoft Excel, to electronically track volunteer efforts. An electronic system will back up the paper trail and vice versa. Scan receipts, if possible, and organize the computer system through electronic folders. Make sure the folders are arranged in a system which everyone with access to the system can understand. Keep the electronic system organized to avoid loss of information.

Place physical items needed for the program in an organized, labeled area. Using the example stated previously, organize paint cans and other necessary gazebo restoring tools in a well ventilated area on labeled shelves to avoid confusion between personal and volunteer supplies. Sometimes the supplies for the volunteer organization are stored in a home with personal supplies, so the organization's physical properties need to be clearly labeled.

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