Welcome to our latest series, “Balancing Life as an Au Pair in America.” Our first blog is all about the benefits of volunteering. For Au Pairs, finding the right balance between responsibilities and personal growth is important, and volunteering is a great way to do this. It makes you feel good about helping others and is a rewarding way to spend your time.
Throughout this blog we will guide you through the process of becoming a volunteer and explain why engaging in volunteering is beneficial. Our tips and advice will help you fit volunteering into your daily life, helping make your time in the U.S. more enjoyable and fulfilling.
Volunteering is an important part of American life, and here are some ways you can join in:
- Au Pair in America’s Global Awareness Program
- With our unique Global Awareness program, you can volunteer in many different places including elementary and middle school classrooms, giving you the opportunity to share your culture, customs and language with young American children.
- Global Awareness is designed to foster a greater knowledge of the diversity and variety of cultures the world has to offer. You will be able to present a wide variety of topics and all the presentations are interactive and fun for the children! For more information on our Global Awareness program, click here.
- We’ve shared a video on our socials of au pair, Lucia, who recently presented to a group of local children about her language and culture. Take a look here!
- With Your Host Family
- You can speak with your host family about any opportunities to volunteer. A good example would be volunteering for your host child’s sports team.
- Community Counselor Recommendations
- Your community counselor can suggest local volunteering opportunities. They are the expert and will be more than willing to talk to you about the different opportunities available.
- Independently Search
- Whatever your interests, skills, and availability there’s a volunteer opportunity that’s perfect for you. You can do your own research and see what options there are! Here a few examples:
- Soup Kitchen Volunteer: Volunteer at soup kitchens to prepare and serve meals to those in need. It’s a direct way to support your community and help people facing food insecurity.
- Environmental Cleanup Crew: Join cleanup events to remove trash from natural spaces like parks and beaches. This effort not only keeps public areas clean but also protects ecosystems.
- Tutoring/Mentoring Program: Make a difference by tutoring or mentoring young people. Help with schoolwork or offer guidance to empower them towards success.
- Animal Shelter Volunteer: Animal enthusiasts can volunteer at shelters, helping with tasks like feeding, grooming, and walking dogs. You’ll care for animals and assist in finding them homes.
- Community Garden Volunteer: Work in community gardens to grow and maintain plants. It’s a great way to contribute to local food sources and enjoy nature.
- Whatever your interests, skills, and availability there’s a volunteer opportunity that’s perfect for you. You can do your own research and see what options there are! Here a few examples:
Volunteering offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with others and support your community. Also, when we help others, it not only gives us joy but can also bring positive effects on our health. Here are some of the benefits you may experience:
- Healthy Heart: Volunteering has been linked to lower blood pressure, which is good for your heart. People who volunteer often tend to live longer lives.
- Less Stress: Giving your time to help others can reduce stress levels, making you feel more relaxed and at ease.
- Happiness Boost: Volunteering can increase the release of endorphins, which are natural chemicals in our bodies that make us feel happy.
By volunteering, you not only make a difference in the lives of others but also reap these wonderful health benefits for yourself. It’s a win-win situation!
In wrapping up our blog on “Balancing Life as an Au Pair in America,” remember that balance is about making meaningful choices. Volunteering not only helps others but enriches your life, bringing happiness and new friendships. It’s a way to feel more connected to your community in the U.S.
Click here to read our other blogs!
