Originally I was determined to dig up a huge catalog of PR-development online resources for all PR-lovers. Then I re-discovered that this had already been covered by my professor, Bill Handy. To save all of us from needless rambling, read what Bill has to say about various free resources that each of us should check out and utilize.

Instead of online resources, we’ll discuss free PR-development opportunities, specifically volunteering. Be prepared to be blasted with the importance of volunteering to your professional and personal development.

Volunteering with an organization, specifically for PR or not, helps you develop your professional skills, teamwork abilities and overall well-being. How so?

Understand Your Audiences

While you may love your current position, working in the field or being a student, volunteering gives you a better perspective of the members of your audience. Sometimes as practioners we forget that our audience members are more complex than simply people who fit our target profile.

Each of us has our struggles and triumphs that we don’t always share with others. Volunteering typically puts you in an environment to learn more about others through conversation; starting opportunities. The more you understand others, the better you can learn to communicate with them.

A personal example of pro bono PR work success can be found here.

Network in the Community

Not only does volunteering for a community organization or club help you better understand your audiences, you also network with these individuals.

For instance, in my internship with the local YMCA, two other staff members and I started a Biggest Loser-style program for members and non-members. Throughout the program, I contacted several business leaders, reporters and participants.

The experience gave me an opportunity to network with others in the community for a purpose. It was refreshing to make meaningful contacts while helping the community. Those who helped the program had integrated goals and we had a reciprocal relationship. These contacts have been helpful as I’ve planned our second Biggest Loser and other non-YMCA related events.

Gain New Experiences

Sometimes as students and professionals, we don’t always get the opportunity to try new activities that interest us. Volunteering offers an avenue to try the stuff you’ve always wanted to do, but haven’t. A list of suggested ideas can be found here.

Get Happy

Helping others helps you feel better. Science proves it. Benefits of volunteering include an increased sense of well-being, decrease in insomnia and an improved immune system. More information about health benefits can be found here.

Plus, you feel like you’re doing something that’s improving your nook of the world, and the feeling is incredible. Why not volunteer?

What are your thoughts on pro bono PR? Any suggestions for volunteering resources and opportunities?