So, back to the equation= E=mc2. The other part of volunteering is having a clear understanding of what you are doing. Most smaller non-profits run on a shoestring budget and crave volunteers the way a wanderer in the desert craves water (or the way I crave chocolate)! Many people have the desire to volunteer, but don't always accurately evaluate their ability to give their time. This translates into jobs not done, often until the last minute, and puts a strain on the very organization you set out to help.
E=Energy; in order to effectively volunteer, you must have a clear idea of how much actual energy you have to give. For instance, if you have a full time job, do judo twice a week, have 3 kids, and a life partner, you really want to think about what you offer to give an organization. Don't promise two hours a week, you are unlikely to be able to follow through. Instead volunteer for a specific project that can be done at odd intervals, or even out of the office, with a clear deadline. You will be tempted, when you are surrounded by the glamour that is Making A Difference In The World to allow your enthusiasm to overestimate your available energy. Resist.
M= Mass of free time; whatever your other obligations, your free time has a value to you. One way that I like to volunteer is by doing it with people I like to spend time with. Volunteering can be highly social and you can often spend a couple of hours doing something meaningful and then retire to a nearby pub for pool and beer with your friends (and often new friends as well).
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