Getting involved as a volunteer

Volunteers are a key part of credit unions.

There are lots of opportunities for voluntary work.

Whether you can spare an hour a week or  more  there are many ways to get involved.

Many credit unions rely on the enthusiasm and commitment of volunteers.Thanks to volunteers credit unions can have a flexible and motivated workforce despite their limited resources.

Becoming a volunteer means you can:

• give something back to your community
• work with people
• use and develop your skills, and
• gain access to training.

Your credit union is looking for people who can offer business and development skills across a wide range of disciplines. Whether you have an hour or two to spare or can commit more time there is a role for you if you have any of the following knowledge or skills:

Don't think you have anything to offer?

Yes you have – everyone has something to offer a credit union. You don’t need to be a financial expert or a wizard on the PC. Talk to your credit union and find out what your potential contribution could be.

Not sure you can make the commitment?

Your credit union would expect some commitment - how much, is for you and your credit union to decide. Helping with mailings involves much less commitment than becoming an elected director, for example. Don’t commit to time you cannot spare. Start with a few hours work and see how it goes.

Don't know much about credit unions?

Don't worry, you can learn. The credit union will provide an Introduction to Credit Unions as part of the induction process. You'll be surprised how quickly you will pick things up.

Thinking about becoming an elected director of your credit union?

Credit unions are co-operatives whose directors are elected by the membership. The Board of Directors has a vital role in providing leadership and direction to the credit union. It is the governing body that determines policy and makes decisions. Credit unions need a diverse range of skills and knowledge to help them develop. Directors are not paid for their work but expenses are usually covered.

Ok, I'm ready. What do I do next?

Look for volunteering opportunities listed on the left hand panel of this page. Speak to your credit union. An informal chat will help you and your credit union decide what you want to do and where your skills can be used most usefully. If you want to become a director you must be elected into the role. Ask the credit union for details.