They say time is money and often times in this fast paced, technology driven world we live in, we don't have time to devote to everything we would like to let alone volunteering. Volunteering your time is a gift idea more for yourself than for anyone else. The gratification felt after spending an hour making a difference does more than writing a check, some might say it adds a certain glow a Dolce & Gabanna bronzer or NARS body glow can't replicate. Chicago has hundreds of non-profit organizations that can use your time.
I've been volunteering in different capacities since I can remember. A lot of it stemmed from catholic school obligations and my parents, but as I grew older it became natural to volunteer anytime I could. The best thing about volunteering in Chicago is there are organizations that allow you to volunteer without all the commitments (Chicago Cares, One Brick). You can volunteer as much as you like(as little would be defeating the purpose, no?). Besides helping a great cause, some of the perks as a result of volunteering include: meeting new friends, a new job opportunity, meeting your partner or future spouse. When you volunteer with a certain organization, you know the people you will be around are also there for the same reason.
Chicago Cares is an organization that allows you to volunteer as much as your schedule will permit. This organization co-founded by Neil Bluhm's daughter Leslie Bluhm and Mary Prchal 20 years ago, does a great job of partnering with different organizations to accommodate different schedules.
Some of the best places to start volunteering are your local hospital, museum, food pantry, soup kitchen, animal shelter, house of worship.
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