All-Stars Playbook: How to Do a Volunteer Project

Put Together a Game Plan
While you may be able to work with others already involved in a project, you might want to start something on your own. Some points to think about:
  • What is the goal of the project? Think about what you're trying to achieve. In the examples given above, young people collected socks for the homeless, started a softball league for the disabled, and began a program to increase racial understanding.

  • Who is the project leader? It's always important to have a "captain" and a clear understanding of who's in charge. Think about any help you might need from adults in leading the project.

  • Who else should be on your team? Think about different groups that you might need help from or want to include: teachers, parents, students, or anyone else. Remember that working with other people increases the impact of your project.

  • Where will the service take place? If you're organizing a group to work with a community-based organization, make sure you know where to go and how to get there. If your project needs space, such as a place to collect clothing, think about who might donate space - maybe your school, a community center or a church.

  • What supplies do you need? For example, if you are making books for children in the local homeless shelter, you may need paper, paint, markers, and scissors. If you're painting an elderly person's house, you'll need paint, brushes, plastic sheeting and tape. Maybe an art class has leftover materials, or maybe a local store would be willing to donate supplies.

  • What money do you need? Make a list of any money you'll need to spend. You may need to cover supply costs if you can't get them donated or pay to help transport volunteers to the service location. Be creative in finding money. Have a car wash to raise money, or ask local businesses to sponsor your project by donating cash in return for you publicizing their support.

  • How will you get there? Public transportation and car pools are the two most common solutions. You might also talk to bus or van services, senior citizens' groups, schools, and local civic groups that can help. It may also be possible for the service to come to you instead of you going to the service. For example, you can make treat bags for hospitalized children at a central location and then arrange delivery with the hospital. Or ask a taxi company to deliver them as a donation to the project.

  • Liability and Safety Issues. Think about the safety issues involved. Do you need your volunteers to sign a permission slip? Find out about liability concerns, such as having teenage drivers. List names and phone numbers of people to contact in case of an emergency. Have a first-aid kit on site. And if you're using equipment, provide training on how to use it. You should also have adult help available in case something goes wrong.