Volunteering for a Year

Each year, thousands of recent college graduates choose to dedicate a year or more of their lives to serving others in what is commonly referred to as a "gap year." While most people associate a volunteer year with the Peace Corps or AmeriCorps, there are many other international and domestic service opportunities out there.  Many see this as a year off, but it really is a year for professional and personal growth.

Benefits

• Résumé boost/professional growth/career exploration
• Education awards
• Travel opportunities/cultural exploration
• Enhanced communication and interpersonal skills

Resources

• Lindy Center for Civic Engagement
• Catholic Volunteer Network – A guide to faith-based volunteer programs, both long- and short-term
• Volunteer Match – Resource aimed to match your skills with needs in your community
• Idealist.org – A resource for job seekers in the nonprofit and service sectors

Next Steps

• Participate in a week-long service immersion experience through school, church, or local organizations
• Volunteer at local nonprofit organizations and speak with full-time staff or volunteers to learn more about their experiences
• Follow programs of interest on social media