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You are halfway towards becoming a volunteer with a project near you and you may be thinking; "I don't think I can do this" or "I haven't got the skills to do this" or "I don't want to make a weekly commitment".
Try to forget these thoughts if you can and think about the qualities that you will take with you in your Volunteering...
You; your life experiences; your thoughts, feelings and opinions, your skills.
The Voluntary Organisation, which you choose to work for, will realise your value and support you in your volunteering.
Nearly all of the Organisations will offer to teach you specific skills if this is needed in order to fulfil their particular task descriptions so never let the skills they require put you off. You are giving them YOU!
You may not have to sign up with an Organisation for a weekly commitment. Most Organisations will be flexible and accept that you have a busy life schedule and you may want to offer them a fortnightly commitment - or even better; share the commitment with a friend.
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Prior to contact be sure and clear how often you can Volunteer - never over commit yourself. Other useful questions for you to have ready to ask the Organisation, after you have introduced yourself and your possible availability to volunteer, may include:
 Could you explain the project to me (What do you do/How do you do it)?.
What tasks would you expect me to do?
How would I do these? (do you have a task description).
Do you reimburse expenses?
Do you give initial on-going support until I feel comfortable and
 confident doing these tasks?.
Do you offer support and or training?.
I'd like to think about it and get back to you.
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Volunteering enhances your
Social life!
Career prospects - an advantage over someone who hasn't been a
volunteer (proves commitment and responsibility)
mental health
Friendship circle
Self worth/self esteem
Life experiences
Personal and professional skills.
You can do it and you will be valuable - never doubt this.
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