Why do you think volunteering in the community is good?

Volunteering? how can I use my talent?

• I'm currently a sophomore in high school. I feel like I've been really passive when it comes to community service/volunteering and things like that. I've researched many programs on google, but I can't seem to find any that stand out to me (for ex, volunteering at the hospital or the library seems too typical and common; I really want to be aim for programs/volunteering services that will help me develop my talents/character). Also, many of my friends think I'm super OCD (but I'm really not.. I don't think :)), making schedules of my daily activities, keeping my notes organized, maintaining my desk organization, keeping my files organized in categories on my computer, etc.. I think being organized could be a potential talent for me, but how can I use it so that I will be noticed (unlike playing piano or dancing, you can't really go out and compete for this)? Other than being meticulous, I haven't really discovered any other talents in myself... so maybe are there any suggestions for trying to find your talent? so basically, are there any good places I can volunteer at or be a part of an organization that's out of the ordinary? And also, how can I use my talent to develop my uniqueness that will standout when it comes to college applications?

• Answer:

  There are a lot of non-profit organizations requiring volunteers for their office and super-organized people for fund-raising events. Did you mention piano because it is something you enjoy? Most hospitals and some nursing homes have a piano or an organ, and music therapy is being recognized as beneficial for the patients. Even if they don't already have a music therapy program in place, you could suggest to them that you would be willing to play for them. Another program that has been developed in the last 10 - 15 years is dog therapy. They visit nursing homes and hospitals.