How to Volunteer at UNICEF

When you volunteer at UNICEF, you are helping "to advocate for the protection of children's rights, to help meet their basic needs and to expand their opportunities to reach their full potential." Here's how you can help.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A big heart

1. Check to see if there is a local UNICEF program in your community. Many local groups have their own Web sites which 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 them about their current need for volunteers.
3. Attend an actual UNICEF event to see if it would be 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 will schedule these for new volunteers. You will meet some of the leaders of the local council, hear about the history and goals of UNICEF 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 you are given. If you have not yet received an assignment, call the volunteer coordinator.

Tips & Warnings

• There are many local and national organizations looking for your help. If you feel you are not working with the right organization, look for another one.
• Remember you are a volunteer. If you are unable to attend an event or fulfill an obligation, call your contact at UNICEF and let them know.
• Some organizations do a personal background check. You may also be asked to notarize some paperwork. This is to protect the organization as well as any people you may be helping.
• Most organizations exist to help people in trouble. Be prepared to possibly find yourself in upsetting situations.