After a divorce, life can feel overwhelming and lonely. You may find yourself with extra time, a desire to heal, and a need to rediscover your purpose. One of the best ways to move forward is through volunteering. Giving your time to help others not only benefits the community but also helps you find joy, build connections, and feel fulfilled.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to start volunteering after divorce, offer a list of helpful resources, and share tools to make it super easy for you to get involved. Whether you’re looking for local opportunities, virtual options, or ways to use your unique skills, there’s something here for everyone.
Why Volunteering Is Great After Divorce
- Fills Your Time With Purpose
Divorce often leaves gaps in your schedule. Volunteering fills that space with meaningful activities. - Boosts Your Self-Confidence
Helping others reminds you of your strengths and abilities, which can sometimes feel lost after a divorce. - Builds New Connections
Volunteering introduces you to like-minded people, helping you rebuild a sense of community. - Improves Mental Health
Studies show that volunteering reduces stress, fights depression, and increases happiness.
How to Start Volunteering
1. Find Your Passion
Ask yourself:
- What causes are important to me? (e.g., children, animals, the environment)
- Do I prefer working with people or behind the scenes?
- How much time can I realistically commit?
2. Start Small
If you’re unsure, start with short-term projects or one-day events to see what feels right. Many organizations allow volunteers to start with minimal time commitments.
3. Search for Opportunities
There are countless platforms that make finding volunteer work easy. Below are some great websites and resources to get you started.
Resources to Find Volunteer Opportunities
Websites
- VolunteerMatch
A popular platform to search for volunteer work based on your location and interests. Opportunities include both in-person and virtual options. - HandsOn Connect
Perfect for discovering local community events and programs in your area. - DoSomething.org
Focuses on youth-driven volunteer campaigns but welcomes all ages. Great for projects you can do from home. - Catchafire
Matches professionals with nonprofits for skill-based volunteering. Perfect if you want to use your career experience to help others. - Habitat for Humanity
A well-known organization that helps build affordable housing for those in need.
Apps
- Golden Volunteer
Download this app to browse flexible opportunities that match your schedule. - GoVolunteer
Connects you with charities and events near you through a user-friendly interface.
Podcasts on Volunteering
- “Volunteer Nation”
A podcast that covers all things related to volunteering, from starting out to long-term projects. - “The Good Life Project”
While not exclusively about volunteering, this podcast focuses on creating a meaningful life, with episodes on giving back.
Books on Volunteering
- Doing Good Better by William MacAskill
A practical guide on how to make the biggest impact through volunteering.
Buy it here on Amazon (Affiliate Link) - Give and Take by Adam Grant
Explores the power of generosity and how giving can transform your life and career.
Purchase on Bookshop (Affiliate Link)
Magazines and Guides
- Positive News Magazine
Features uplifting stories of people and organizations making a difference.
Subscribe here. - Free Local Community Newspapers
Many local papers list volunteer opportunities and charity events.
Affiliate Product Recommendations
- Journals for Reflection
Volunteering can be a reflective journey. Use a guided journal to document your experiences.
Try the BestSelf Journal (Affiliate Link). - Books on Kindness
Keep inspiring yourself to give back with motivational books like The Power of Kindness.
Find it on Amazon (Affiliate Link).
How to Stay Motivated While Volunteering
- Set Goals
Think about what you want to achieve through volunteering (e.g., making new friends, learning a skill, or spending time outdoors). - Celebrate Small Wins
Every small act of kindness makes a difference. Reflect on how your efforts are helping others. - Try New Opportunities
If one role doesn’t feel right, don’t give up. Explore different causes and activities.
Final Thoughts: You Can Make a Difference
Volunteering after divorce isn’t just about helping others—it’s about helping yourself too. It gives you a chance to heal, rediscover your strengths, and build a new, fulfilling chapter in your life. Start small, explore your passions, and let your journey unfold naturally.
Remember, there are countless resources and opportunities to make your first step easy. You’re not just giving your time; you’re gaining purpose, confidence, and joy in return.
