The changing job market has affected African American women through rising unemployment. Meanwhile, those who are employed might feel unsatisfied with their jobs because they want to work for companies more aligned with their values. That’s why volunteering is needed.

Volunteering enables you to pursue passion and purpose by contributing your skills to causes that are meaningful to you. Volunteering is also a powerful way to boost your creative portfolio. By engaging in volunteer work, you gain hands-on experience, develop new skills, and expand your network, all of which can contribute to your growth as a creative professional.

Why You Should Start Volunteering as a Creative 

The creative industry comprises of individuals who write, create content, manage social media, conduct public relations, and digital marketing efforts for a company. A creative role requires multiple skills, and volunteering provides opportunities to expand one’s portfolio.

Through volunteering, individuals can showcase a range of skill sets, from branding to graphic design and video production, all of which are valuable in supporting organizations’ communications and marketing efforts. 

Dr. Kimberly Gustasfon, a Lecturer in the Nonprofit and Leadership Center at South Dakota State University says that corporations that allow employees to volunteer have used it to build teamwork. She adds that some companies use volunteering as a recruitment tool. 

Volunteering can lead to employment opportunities, which is significant, as the Economic Policy Institute reports that educated Black women with degrees have experienced rising unemployment rates due to federal layoffs and buyouts. Also, with the rapid rise of AI in the creative industry, it’s beneficial for creatives to showcase the value of their work to organizations and develop essential skills that employers value, such as interpersonal communication. 

How to Find The Best Volunteer Roles for Your Passion 

Volunteering offers individuals a great opportunity to do meaningful work and make an impact. To find a volunteer role, it’s best to start by considering what you are passionate about to find causes that are meaningful to you. You can start by searching non-profit organizations. Non-profit organizations often utilize volunteers to advance their mission and goals, and these organizations vary in the different causes they promote. The non-profit cause could be centered on women’s empowerment and the elimination of gender-based violence, or children and youth development. 

In New York, a non-profit centered on women’s issues is the Zonta Club of New York, which was chartered by Zonta International and seeks to build a better world for women and girls through service, advocacy, educational programs, and scholarships. Another volunteer opportunity is with the Africa Women Summit, which works to empower women in Africa.  

Dr. Gustafson says that volunteering is beneficial for young adults because it helps them build friendships, share activities, and feel part of something bigger than themselves.

Steps To Take to Be a StandOut Volunteer

Once you’ve found the organization that’s a great fit for you, you should do your best to add value. One way to be a standout volunteer is to first understand the organization you are volunteering at. Have a clear understanding of their mission and goals. You should know the organization’s strengths and achievements. You should also know the challenges they face and the support they need.

To gain a better understanding of the organization, start by researching what you can find on their website and through social media. You can also speak to the employees and members. Ask questions to learn more about the organization’s successes and challenges.

It’s also important to take initiative. You can take initiative by coming up with solutions to the organization’s needs. The solution could be collaboration opportunities to raise awareness. It could also be content ideas that bring in new members or showcase products. You can also simply assist the staff by supporting them in their work. 

How to Build Connections & Expand Your Network through Volunteering

Networking is a valuable way to establish relationships with individuals who can help you understand a company, offer mentorship or referrals. For Black women who have experienced job loss, networking has provided them with an opportunity to connect with other Black professional women who can support them in reviewing resumes and finding job leads. 

One way to build your network through volunteering is to learn more about the people you volunteer with. You can learn more about members and staff by requesting informal interviews. You can also ask staff and members of the organization whether they are available for an in-person meeting to learn more about the company. 

Why Mentorship Matters in Volunteer Work

Mentorship is necessary and for Black women, it can lead to intergenerational healing that arises due to discrimination and racism. In ‘The Depressing Career Question That Keeps Me Up at Night,” on Refinery29, Ally Hickson writes that having a mentor who is a Black woman is her “safety net, her confidant, her advisor and anchor.” 

Pat Latona, the Director of the Zonta Club of New York, says that mentorship is an investment in a shared future. She says that in Zonta, “mentoring is a voluntary learning partnership between experienced club members (mentors) and new club members (mentees) for the purpose of sharing knowledge and information.” 

To be mentored, you can reach out directly to a supervisor or peer. You can also be mentored by developing relationships within your network. As you participate in programs and activities, ask questions, observe, and take notes. 

Latona further affirms that mentorship is a valuable experience because of the outcomes: a sense of belonging and fellowship, an attitude of service to the community, and a desire to advance the status of women. 

Final Thoughts

Volunteering is more than a means to pass the time. It’s a high-impact opportunity to align skills with values and purpose. A volunteer role is advantageous for many reasons. First, it enables you to build your portfolio. Second, volunteering offers you the opportunity to network. To learn and collaborate with experienced professionals. Third, volunteering offers mentorship from experts who can offer life-changing advice. Whether you’re seeking a path towards building your portfolio or aiming for meaningful work, volunteering provides the best avenue to both. There are many benefits of volunteering and the best time to start is now.