Resources for women wanting to turn a passion into action

Lifestyle — By

1.    Focus your idea: Select opportunities based on your interest

Students at UW-Madison can check out The Morgridge Center for Public Service at www.morgridge.wisc.edu. As a student, you have a number of options for getting involved on campus, in the Madison community or even with national and international programs. Tailor your volunteer work to your specific interests.

2.    Advocate for women’s issues

The UW-Madison Campus Women’s Center offers a number of local volunteer and internship opportunities centered around women’s issues: www.campuswomenscenter.rso.wisc.edu. Have an interest in an issue other than those offered? E-mail their Support Services Coordinator at cwc.supportservices@gmail.com and suggest your own.

3.    Expand your reach: Find opportunities across the state of Wisconsin

Break out of the campus bubble and get involved with a community issue. Visit the Volunteer Center Association of Wisconsin at www.volunteerwisconsin.org. Select a county or area of interest and find opportunities available in those regions.

4.    Volunteering not for you? Take part in a research project

UW offers a vast array of research opportunities, from assisting with someone else’s project to creating your own. Check out www.wisc.edu/research to explore your options.

5.    Turn your passion into profit

Not everyone gets the same sense of fulfillment from volunteering. The Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Network provides opportunities to learn from and work with aspiring entrepreneurs. Visit www.wenportal.org and click “Services” to see a full list of potential help from the WEN.

6.    Learn about current societal issues: Attend one of the Wisconsin Union Directorate’s Distinguished Lecture Series

WUD invites seven to 10 individuals to speak on UW’s campus each year. These lectures provide students and community members with interesting perspectives on current and often controversial issues. Use the resources presented during the lectures as a starting point to get involved with an issue of interest to you. Check to see who is speaking at www.union.wisc.edu/WUD/dls.aspx.

7.    Have a usable skill? Offer your services for free

If you’re a college student, a young professional or you’re contemplating a career change,  consider offering your skills on a pro-bono basis to nonprofits, small businesses, or student organizations. Pro-bono work is a great way to help others and gain career experience.

    Tags: ,