Today’s guest post is written by Joseph Baker, he enjoys volunteering in his community, writing, and baking. Read his work at professionalintern.com.

Volunteer work can be a wonderful, fulfilling experience or it can be a constant struggle. In the end, it all depends on how you approach finding volunteer opportunities. Not everyone has the same skills or tastes, so not every potential volunteer will find every job interesting or fulfilling. Though the point of dedicating time to a cause is to enrich the world, it still helps if you're enthusiastic about your position and truly enjoy whatever work you're doing. Whether you're planting trees in a park for an environmental conservation organization or helping senior alert equipped elders retain their independence by assisting them with everyday tasks, finding the right position will give you more opportunities to use your talents and skills while giving you the satisfaction of doing a good deed. There are several paths you can follow when choosing an organization or cause for your volunteer efforts: find a fit for your career, exercising your other talents or passions, or volunteering for anything that's available. They all have their own unique benefits and all are equally wonderful, but you may find one more helpful to you than others.

Match Your Career

If you're in a career that requires very specific credentials, such as the medical or legal fields, consider finding groups that can use your specific skillset. Many non-profits need help with legal documents and groups that provide healthcare for their local homeless population can always use skilled medical practitioners. Many organizations need help with marketing, grant writing, public relations or administrative management. If you've spent years developing specific abilities, it makes sense to put them to use in your volunteer work. Highly skilled individuals can be difficult for non-profits to find.

Match Your Interests

If you're like me, then you have a knowledge base and skillset that doesn't really have much to do with your current career. One great way to exercise your passions is to put them to work outside of your job. For instance, I have a strong desire to educate my community about social justice issues, particularly human trafficking and homelessness, and to motivate people to get involved in bettering their surroundings. Since my job doesn't involve social justice education, I joined up with a Love Alliance Action Group and put my love of education and activism to work. If you're looking to get involved in your community and want an outlet for your creativity and loves, take the time to find an organization that will give you that outlet.

Do Whatever Is Needed

I don't want you to think that I'm saying you shouldn't volunteer if a particular position doesn't use your skillset or match your passions. Volunteering isn't about you, after all. Though I've experienced many benefits from my volunteer work –  from a sense of pride to many networking opportunities – my primary goal is to make the world a better place. If a non-profit organization is in desperate need of volunteers, consider signing up for a single event even if you're not thrilled about the work you'll be doing. Just remember the good you're doing and all the people who will benefit from your commitment.