Best Volunteer Opportunities for Each of the Workplace Motivators

Here are the best volunteering opportunities for each!

• Theoretical/Knowledge - Most Interested (#1 or #2), Least Interested (#5 or #6)
  
• Utilitarian/Economic  - Most Interested (#1 or #2), Least Interested (#5 or #6)
  
• Aesthetic/Surroundings  - Most Interested (#1 or #2), Least Interested (#5 or #6)
  
• Social/Altruistic  - Most Interested (#1 or #2), Least Interested (#5 or #6)
  
• Individualistic/Political  - Most Interested (#1 or #2), Least Interested (#5 or #6)
  
• Traditional/Regulatory  - Most Interested (#1 or #2), Least Interested (#5 or #6)

#1 and #2  Interest - Theoretical/Intellectual: Expanding Information

People with this as their #1 or #2 interest want to acquire knowledge, discover, and find learning opportunities. This person wants all available knowledge on the subject to understand it, regardless of the direct application. They like learning for the sake of learning!

If you have an intellectual drive, feed your desire for new information by finding a volunteer opportunity based on gathering knowledge.

• Zooniverse is a great place to start; you can collaborate to help transcribe medieval records and analyze data from space. You'll be helping to expand public knowledge and improve the quality and quantity of available resources.
• You also might thrive as a tutor! Make sure to choose an area of study you're passionate about and help students find that same passion in themselves.  
• You may also enjoy helping non-profits research new projects or help them capture stories, data and information to share on their website or on social media.

#6 Interest Theoretical - Honing In Focus

People with this as their #6 interest use experience, intuition, and real-time research to solve an immediate need. They only want the knowledge necessary to accomplish the task. They pursue knowledge on a "need-to-know" basis.

• This practical approach makes them well-suited to volunteer at crisis hotlines. By offering their time this way, they can provide real-time support and assistance to distressed individuals. Their quick problem-solving skills and ability to focus during a tense time will offer guidance and comfort to people in vulnerable situations, like the Suicide Prevention Services of America Hotline.

#1 or #2 Interest - Utilitarian/Economic: Optimizing Organizations 

People with this as their #1 or #2 interest are driven by practical results, maximizing both efficiency and returns for their investments of time, talent, energy, and resources. They are passionate about return on investment and want to build a framework that maximizes the time and talent they invest in a project. 

• Harness your specific skill set and bring it to an organization in need! Most nonprofits can find a use for your talents if you're skilled in marketing, finance, technology, organization, grant writing, or any other skill. Help work behind the scenes to optimize their operations and achieve their goals.  
• Find the best charities by cause using the Charity Navigator.
• Consider getting on the Board of any non-profit you care about to help them become more efficient and effective, or helping with fund raising and making connections.

#6 Interest - Utilitarian/Economic: Giving Selflessly of Your Time

People with this as their #6 interest want to complete tasks with little expectation of personal return. They give freely of their time. They tend to focus on the greater good versus a return on the investment of their resources.

• They might enjoy volunteering for packing projects. Check out organizations like Meals on Wheels, a network that addresses senior hunger and isolation, or Feed My Starving Children. Focusing on getting a job done right will satisfy this person. 

#1 and #2 Interest - Aesthetic/Harmonious: Creating Cohesiveness

People with this as their #1 or #2 interest have a subjective focus on the experience and the totality of their surroundings – often preferring form over function and seeking to beautify and harmonize the world around them. They have high satisfaction when they can create harmony and tranquility in all aspects of their lives. They focus on the big picture.

• Participating in community art projects is an excellent way for people with this driver to give back.  By working on projects that beautify public spaces, such as murals, sculptures, or decorative landscaping, they create aesthetically pleasing environments for everyone to enjoy. This work will satisfy their creative self-expression. 
• Here is one example of a non-profit that is focused on beautifying hospitals - The Foundation of Hospital Art
• Check out this list of 35 Non-Profits Focused on the Environment 

#6 Interest - Aesthetic: Supporting Seniors

People with this as their #6 interest are comfortable with the functionality and objectivity of their surroundings. They are not distracted in chaotic environments and can view everything in pieces and focus on one piece at a time. They focus on function over form and prefer to break a whole project or idea down into measurable parts and look at them independently. This desired approach makes them an excellent candidate for volunteering as technical support for seniors. 

• They can help seniors learn how to use technology and navigate their digital devices one step at a time. Others might be overwhelmed by the task, but they can focus amidst chaos and provide the step-by-step insight needed to do a thorough and accurate job.  See the technology for senior volunteer opportunities with AARP.

#1 and #2 Interest - Social/Altruistic: Mentoring For An Impact

People with this as their #1 or #2 interest are the ones you might typically think of when it comes to volunteering; they assist others for the satisfaction of being helpful or supportive. They will give generously their time, talent, and resources without expecting personal return.

While Altruistic people might want to throw themselves entirely into volunteering, it's worth considering their options and where they can make the most significant impact.

• One such area is working in a youth mentoring program! By working with young people, they can provide guidance, support, and a positive role model in a critical time of life.  People with an altruistic nature can significantly impact and help encourage teens to become thoughtful adults.  Consider The Boys and Girls Club as one option.
• Removing pain and suffering of the homeless may also be a great fit.  Here are 13 Charities Focusing on Helping the Homeless

#6 Social/Altruistic: Coaching Careers 

People with this as their #6 interest want to assist others for a specific purpose, not just to be helpful or supportive. They are careful with their energy and resources and want a return on their investments. Their favorite phrase might be,"Catch a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."

Volunteering in career development programs is a fantastic way for them to give back. By offering coaching and skills training to job seekers, they can feel the satisfaction of helping people who want to work hard. Their assistance can help individuals secure employment, potentially resulting in career growth and stability.  Or they can teach other practical skills they have experience with.

#1 or #2 Interest - Individualistic: Leading For Legacy

People with this as their #1 or #2 interest want value status and public recognition, and they want to assert control over their freedom and destiny. They are driven to create winning strategies and are passionate about creating an enduring legacy through their work.

• They want a hand in creating their path forward and prefer to take on roles that receive recognition. They’re an excellent fit for leadership roles on non-profit boards. 
• They can also take leadership roles on projects, allowing them to take charge and be the spokesperson for specific initiatives.

#6 Interest - Individualistic: Cleaning Up Communities 

People with this as their #6 interest want to be in a supporting role and contribute with little need for individual recognition. They focus on their contribution versus advancing their position and enjoy working behind the scenes and getting things done.

• They would be a great help in community cleanup and beautification. The work might not be glamorous but is crucial for communities; they will dig into the essential tasks and enjoy working closely with others. They will enjoy contributing to something larger than themselves and being part of a team. 
• Also, consider helping in the office of any non-profit.

#1 and #2 Interest - Traditional/Regulatory: Affecting The Approach

People with this as their #1 or #2 interest want traditional approaches and proven methods. They abide by a defined system of living and enjoy following and enforcing the rules. Don't ask them to do something without explaining the structure and your reasoning!  

They seek consistency and place a high value on working within a defined system. This makes them well-positioned to volunteer in process optimization and documentation. 

• They should find an organization they believe in and volunteer to document and improve their existing processes. They can help create a framework that enhances efficiency and consistency and helps the organization run more smoothly. 
• Consider being a part of the Neighborhood Architectural Controls volunteer group in your neighborhood.  Help your neighbors follow the rules for building and yard upkeep!
• Consider becoming a volunteer fireman/person.
• Work with non-profits with long time traditions and processes, like the Red Cross or Salvation Army.

#6 Interest - Traditional/Regulatory: Innovating Education

People with this as their #6 interest want new ideas, methods, and opportunities outside a defined living system. They enjoy challenging the status quo and finding new ways to complete routine tasks.

• A less typical volunteering situation that might appeal to them is working on an innovative education initiative. By working with organizations that offer creative educational programs, they can assist in designing and implementing non-traditional learning experiences for students. Schools could develop creative workshops, find alternative learning methods, and empower kids to explore art and science without conventional boundaries. 
• Help an older non-profit that wants to shake up their traditions and become more innovative.