Things get rusty when they are not used. The same holds true of work skills. For many Albertans, being unemployed has been a way of life in the last year. While you actively look for work perhaps there is a way to stay current, stay connected, and stay job ready.
Many volunteer agencies require help. While the job may not pay you, it can benefit you in ways you can’t imagine.
Whether paid or unpaid—work is work. It keeps your skills sharp and shows consistent work history on your resume. It can provide job leads—you hear about work when you are where people work. Staying at home cuts you off from information and leads on jobs. Unpaid work can provide current references. It also gets you back into a work routine and provides structure to your day. We all know hard it is to get back into the swing of things after a vacation.
It’s easy to lose your confidence when you apply for lots of jobs and don’t even get an interview. And waiting for the right job, or “a job”, to come along might take awhile. Unpaid work can make your time productive as well as bolster your confidence and self-esteem.
These days it seems that there are more unpaid jobs than paid ones. Volunteer jobs allow you to stay current. They also allow you to expand your skills and try out jobs you might not normally do. Working provides purpose and, when the work is enjoyable, it ceases to be “just work.” Giving back to your community can be personally rewarding in itself and you may decide to continue with some unpaid work even when you return to paid work.
What volunteer work is available in Stettler? Check the back of the Stettler Business Directory or contact Lorraine Hankins, volunteer co-coordinator, at the Information and Referral Centre (located at FCSS) at 403-742-1155.