How To Volunteer In A Homeless Shelter?

When our situation in life is that we are able to lead our lives in a comfortable fashion, it is easy to forget how fortunate we should be for the things that we do possess. There is no better way to put things into perspective to volunteer at a homeless shelter.

Homeless shelters are common in most major cities and they seem to need help from the community on a constant basis. This does not necessarily mean that you have to donate money to your local shelter. On the contrary, you will often discover that your time and energy is valued even more than money, both by the shelter staff, and its inhabitants. So, if you feel compelled to serve the homeless population in your area, there are numerous ways to lend your support besides donating to a Salvation Army bell ringer during the holiday season.

Start your search in the local phone book. Homeless shelters are usually listed there. Once you have found one that is convenient to your location, feel free to give them a call and tell them the sorts of things that you desire to do. Although you may not start out serving in your desired capacity right from the start, do everything you’re asked to do with a cheerful attitude and a willing smile and people will notice.

It is important not to be judgmental about a homeless persons situation and remember that it is hard to give advice about a given situation without personally experiencing the situation yourself. Also, do not pressure people to tell you personal details about their lives. If they are forthcoming and seem eager to talk, by all means, lend a kind ear, but do not pressure or threaten people to reveal details which may be painful or embarrassing to describe to a near stranger.

A recent bestselling memoir, Same Kind Of Different As Me is centered upon a well-to-do art dealer who finds new meaning from his life of wealth after serving in a homeless shelter. With an open mind, a caring demeanor and a willingness to serve in a variety of capacity, you too can find such satisfaction.