Do you ever volunteer your services? If so, how do you decide which volunteer opportunities to take?

I enjoy the challenges and benefits of volunteering. Rather than simply giving away my services to an individual, however, I prefer opportunities that allow me to make a positive impact on a greater number of people. I have recently begun providing monthly fitness tips for a women's sport and fitness Web site. I have also copresented healthy lifestyles sessions at a men's health conference. I am an active member of a volunteer committee that promotes fitness to an entire state - through the Delaware Lieutenant Governor's Fitness Challenge. Because there are so many worthwhile causes, it can be difficult to decide which should take top priority. As a business owner I recognize that volunteering can often lead to new clients through networking and exposure in the community. Many opportunities to educate the public are considered newsworthy by the media. The resulting press coverage can be an enormous boost to any personal trainer’s business, and the only cost is time. I’ve always believed charity should begin at home. I choose to give my personal resources to causes that raise awareness and/or money for conditions that have somehow touched my life. I prefer to work with organizations that address local social conditions. As personal trainers we tend to live our careers, so there is obviously some carryover from personal to professional. When the most valuable asset we have is time, doesn’t it make sense to share it?

When I became a personal trainer in the mid-1990s, one of my goals was to become successful enough to be in a position to volunteer my services. At the time, personal training was still perceived largely as a luxury item for wealthy people. I entered this industry with a commitment to make fitness a reality for as many people as I could. I look for volunteer opportunities that meet two criteria. First, the activity has to be something I feel a strong desire to participate in. Second—and most important—it has to have the potential for massive impact. I believe trainers need to make the most of their time even when volunteering. I look for opportunities that will draw attention to fitness and provide leadership, education and inspiration, not only to those receiving the services, but also to the general public. With the dismal state of health in the world, trainers should look for every opportunity to inspire more people to be fit. For about a year I have held a volunteer position as the athletic conditioning specialist for the Special Olympics of Maryland. I wrote and provided instruction for fitness routines for over 30 athletes who participated in the summer 2003 World Games in Ireland. It was a thrill to see the athletes improving their fitness level regardless of how that improvement would impact their performance. Many of them had never exercised; previously they had just competed in their events without preparation. Their fitness and function improved dramatically, and these results carried over into their everyday lives. Several of the athletes’ parents also participated in the training and began to exercise with their children. In the media coverage, my aim was to make the concept of working with a trainer seem like a real possibility for all people. In 2004 I plan to organize a charity fitness event to benefit cancer prevention organizations. Again my goal is to use my talents to benefit a cause I care about while influencing as many people as possible to live the best lives they can. What keeps me looking for new opportunities to leave the world in better shape? I can sum up my motivation by paraphrasing a quote from Emerson: “To know even one life has breathed easier because you lived—this is to have succeeded.”

When wisely assessed, volunteer opportunities can be rewarding and personally gratifying experiences as well as additions to a training career. Two governing principles can help trainers determine the best away to donate their time and talent. The first is to have a mission or purpose that outlines their priorities in their work and home life. The second is to consider whether the volunteer work enriches their lives.Here are some questions trainers should ask themselves when deciding whether to volunteer for a certain opportunity: What is the scope of duty requested? Can I manage it? What is important to me? Does the volunteer work meet my priorities or value system? Do I feel that the volunteer work is implicitly good? Will the work be mutually beneficial? What do I bring to the table in relation to what is being asked, and/or in rela- tion to the goals and objectives of the organization? Why am I willing to consider this opportunity? Does it enhance or advance my goals and objectives? Do I find deeper purpose and meaning in life by volunteering? Do I wish to accelerate my career? Do I have extra downtime that needs to be filled? Do I want to avoid surrendering this opportunity to the “competition”? At various times the dynamics of volunteer activity can change, but the principles remain the same, and volunteering will likely bring peace, joy and enrichment. When giving monetary donations, I believe that giving up to 10 percent of annual gross income should be the objective. One’s volunteer time is more difficult to measure, but I think the opportunity should feel like a win-win proposition. Trainers should feel that all parties will benefit from the volunteer service. Volunteering and charity provide a wealth of personal and professional growth opportunities. I have never looked back on a professional year and thought I volunteered too much! Finally, a gracious paradox of volunteer work is that the giver receives so much more than the recipient—often in unexpected, rich and abundant ways. Sixteen years ago a friend asked me to serve on a committee to help build a citywide Dance for Heart fundraiser after she had lost her father to heart disease. Moved with sympathy, I naturally wanted to help. As a result of that effort, we were invited to the White House twice to participate in a national health promotion initiative that furthered our intent. Ten years ago a client asked me to join a board whose mission is to “keep the well child well.” In light of my own mission to help people stay fit for longevity, I currently serve on that board with purpose and satisfaction. It is almost impossible to imagine where I would be had I said no to these and other requests for help from individuals I care for and respect. We help each other in this lifetime, and we are better for it. It is my hope that those I have served are also better for my service. Whether a volunteer opportunity is carefully chosen or spontaneously accepted, we never fully know the good it serves. The beauty is in the journey.

I do not pick my volunteer jobs; they seem to find me! I do most of my volunteer work for neighbors and local churches and schools. I have taught stretch and relaxation classes at church retreats; given lectures and workshops to various groups on topics such as childhood obesity and fitness basics; offered family fitness classes at health fairs; and held informal weight management sessions for my friends and neighbors. Most of all I try to help kids stay active. If an organization or individual asks me for help, I just say yes. I don't need a reason to take a volunteer job. I actually see my role as a responsibility. If someone needs help, I am happy to share my expertise. I receive a lot of joy in return!

I volunteer my dance and wellness services to the community in areas i grew up. I did not have the luxury to afford dance classes or workout classes growing up and was raised in an economically challenged household. So I go back and give back to my community teaching 8 to 10 weeks cycles, once or twice a week for kids, teens and adults. I also teach after school programs when needed.

Volunteering is very important to me in giving back to my community. I usually volunteer in areas that I feel very passionate about. I've volunteered with the American Cancer Society in their Nutrition, Health and Wellness Programs as well as in the Cancer programs.

I've also volunteered with the 3-Day MS Walk, which was so much fun! I try to volunteer at least twice a year and this year I would truly like to work with teens/women in a mentor program or just in providing health and fitness twice a week.

I volunteer my services often when time allows. My studio is about 15 feet from my house so if I have an extra hour here and there I sometimes fill it with a helping hand. I have given free sessions to couples getting married, educational time to people just getting started with a fitter healthier life, and even helping other trainers in the area develope their skills. Word of mouth advertising without trying, and FREE is always a means to have them smiling while they're advertising.

Hi Sandy. I just recently answered another question on a similar topic so just saw your question as "related." Yes, I volunteer often! I love helping people who are in need, and whenever I can lend my skills or knowledge to help others, will ALWAYS find the time to do it. I've volunteered for several years, and so over time have discovered a few organizations that I like and believe in their mission. I do a lot of volunteering with organizations for the homeless, children, and those with special needs. It is very rewarding.

Thanks for your question.

LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
larue.cook@lecfitness.com

Ergonomic assessments are a great way to build clientele as well as get market penetration with companies.

If you're able to schedule a quick session on a weekend, it can be a good amount of extra income that can be earned relatively painlessly as well.

Sandy, as a fitness professional I do volunteer my services on a regular basis. Prior to selecting an event, it depends on the charity (or event) that needs assistance and whether I have a schedule conflict. Its great to volunteer your time. If you're self employed like I am, its also a tax deduction for your mileage and other expenses you may incur. It's also a great way to market your services.