Despite falling unemployment rates, the job market in the U.S. still looks bleak for many. Some attribute this to high numbers of “discouraged workers” — those recently out of work who have, for whatever reason, temporarily given up on finding a new job. Disheartening as this may be, it presents a valuable opportunity for your booster club and the “discouraged” (or the recently retired, on maternity leave, changing careers, going back to school) to work together for mutual gain.
In a recent LinkedIn survey, 42% of hiring managers said they consider volunteer work equivalent to full-time work experience, and another 20% said they’d hired someone because of their volunteer experience. The same survey found a large number of those seeking volunteer opportunities, employed or otherwise, hoped to find an opportunity to utilize their trained skills.
While everyone has to pitch in and do some heavy lifting at some point, highlighting skill-based volunteer opportunities might draw more supporters. Analyze your strengths and weaknesses, and seek out (unpaid) trained helpers: Is your website looking a little ‘90s? Advertise for a web designer. Tired of poster paints and paper banners? Talk to a graphic designer. Don’t limit yourself by asking too little of talented potential volunteers!
Know a skilled volunteer looking for work? Share our story, and direct them to their nearest booster club!
