This post is submitted by our August Guest Blogger - Dana Petersen.
Citizenship for Your Career
Community organizations offer opportunities for leadership and philanthropy, not to mention a break from your workday routine. Weekly or monthly activities are a great way to meet other leaders in your community or your profession. Likewise, if you are looking to apply personal skills and talents that are under-utilized in the workplace, taking an active role with a local chapter may provide a channel for creativity.
Organizations come in all shapes and sizes. Professional groups such as the National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) or the American Business Women's Association (ABWA) provide opportunities for networking and professional development. From the American Red Cross to Heifer International, philanthropic organizations focus on service and outreach. You can make your mark as a new member by applying your skills to publicity or fundraising.
If you have children, community youth groups such as Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4-H and FFA stress the importance of personal goals and leadership. Many groups are in need of adult volunteers for special events or projects such as roadside clean-up or leadership camps.
If you are concerned about the cost of joining an organization, remember that your employer may grant flex time for community activities or help with travel expenses for workshops and conferences. Also, many employers will reimburse a portion of your membership fees. Don't wait - make the most of your summer by being active in your community!
*Dana Petersen is a graduate of Iowa State University with degrees in Marketing and Ag Business. Her versatile writing background includes news articles, technical writing, and observational humor. She currently works with agricultural exchange students at the Foundation for Worldwide International Student Exchange in west Tennessee. Contact her here if you'd like to learn more.
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1 comment:
Great Thoughts Dana! I really like your choice of writing on this topic. It seems so elementary - however, very few of us do enough of it. Aggie-Lance is all about helping people live a work lifestyle that is more flexible. Sometimes when you don't have or don't want the ability to freelance your talents, or work on short term contracts, community involvement can get you out of the work place and using your talents in a different way!
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