How to Volunteer at the American Heart Association

Nonprofit and other social organizations welcome the help of volunteers. Follow these steps to volunteer at the American Heart Association, which strives to "reduce disability and death from cardiovascular diseases and stroke."

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A big heart

1. Look for a local American Heart Association program in your community. Many local groups host their own Web sites that include contact telephone numbers and email addresses, as well as information on their particular volunteer programs.

2. Talk to the volunteer liaison or chapter leader. Ask about their current need for volunteers.

3. Attend an American Heart Association event to see if it's a good match for you. The chapter leader can advise you about attending the next meeting.

4. Go to an orientation session. Most major organizations schedule these for new volunteers. You will meet some of the leaders of the local council, hear about the history and goals of the American Heart Association and hear more about their current volunteer programs. It's also a great way to meet other people interested in volunteering.

5. Fill out any paperwork. If you have not yet received an assignment, call the volunteer coordinator.

Tips & Warnings

• Many local and national organizations seek volunteers. If you feel you are not working with the right organization, look for another one.
• Remember that you are a volunteer. If you cannot attend an event or fulfill an obligation, call your contact at the American Heart Association and let them know.
• Some organizations do personal background checks. They may also ask you to notarize some paperwork. This protects the organization as well as any people you may help.
• Most organizations exist to help people in trouble. Be prepared to face potentially upsetting situations.