Civic / Service Organizations

[PennyCarter]

Sorry, this isn't exactly career related, but I'm not sure where else to post it. Since it kind of relates to networking, I'll put it here.

I am interesting in getting more involved in the community. (I am done with college and grad school.) I do not know much about organizations in my area, so I would love any information you guys can provide. I have looked at the Junior League and it definitely looks like a good organization, but I want to explore all of my options. I am not familiar with similar organizations that may exist.

I live in Chattanooga, so if you know anything specific that would be great, but honestly any feedback is appreciated.
Thanks!!

[kddani]

Look for young professionals groups in your area, they may be a great place to get started.

Not sure what you do, career-wise, but look for groups that involve that.

For instance, I go to Young Lawyer's Division (of our bar association) events a lot lately. I'm meeting a lot of people who are already involved in things, and I can talk with them about it. I also was just accepted to the Bar Leadership Initiative, which is a group of 10 young lawyers in the area who are in this program that gets you really involved in the bar association.

The hardest thing for me has been figuring out what I want to get involved in and what I can best give my time to- finding my niche, so to speak.

Good luck!

[blueangel]

What about getting involved in your sorority's alumnae association????

If you like animals, you can volunteer at the animal shelter.

[AGPhiBete]

Do you have a chapter of Phi Beta Psi nearby? That would be another option. Most Phi Beta Psi chapters are made up of working adults, and focus mostly on the community and other civic projects :-)

If Phi Beta Psi isn't an option, you can also look into Beta Sigma Phi.

[PennyCarter]

Thanks so much for the tips. Young professional organizations would be my first choice, but there really aren't many around. I've asked everyone I know including Chamber members. There are a couple of charities that I am considering also. Please let me know if you are familiar with anything else!
Thanks!!!

[wrigley]

I remember another GC-er had mentioned this website. It lists all sorts of local volunteer opportunities. It's very user friendly and based on your zip code. Good luck.

volunteermatch.org