Individuals Volunteering - South Australians helping others

	Here are some ideas to find what is best for you
	1. What are you passionate about?
	Start by determining what is important to YOU. This is what you are likely to be most passionate about and have the ability to keep supporting. If you or someone you know has been in need then this may be the motivation for contributing time, resources or funds to a related cause. If you have children, their development will obviously be important to you, so being involved in their sporting or recreational activities is a great place to start. If knowing your heritage has helped you find stability and direction you may wish to help others appreciate their origins. Being seen to support a popular cause because "it's the done thing" is often not the best motive and is not likely to provide you with the greatest satisfaction.
	2. What can you provide?
	Determine the extent to which you can contribute and the way in which that contribution will be of greatest benefit. This is likely to be something that you have an abundance of that is of value to others. Time: You may have time on your hands that you can offer in exchange for interacting with others, for business or pleasure. Money: You may have financial assets that you feel others have greater need for than yourself. Ability: You may have knowledge or skills in a particular area that need to be used regularly to stay honed. Resources: You may have intellectual or physical property that can be modified to suit charitable activities in exchange for commercial exposure. While all contributions are appreciated - it is important that you are able to provide what you have promised. So if you can only contribute one hour per month, offer it graciously with the knowledge it is enough to make a difference.
	3. Choosing the right organisation
	Each charitable, volunteer or community organisation has its own needs and potential benefits. A little time spent finding one that matches your beliefs and ability to contribute will help ensure that the benefits are mutually worthwhile. Don't be afraid to ask questions and suggest some sort of trial to be sure you are in the right place and can make the difference you have set out to. It is also important to remember however that when you first become involved with any organisation you may be entering at the ground floor with only a small part to play. Search through the links in the resources section to find options that are available in your area of interest then contact the people involved to get the clearest picture. Also see volunteer rights & responsibilities.