Volunteerism has a long tradition in the United States: from neighbors helping neighbors, to parents coaching their children’s sports teams, to retirees volunteering their time to help a local nonprofit organization fulfill their mission.

The need for volunteers to help in our community continues to grow, and there is a volunteer opportunity for everyone.

The Corporation for National and Community Service reported that one in four Americans volunteered through an organization, and three in five helped their neighbors in 2014.

Most people who want to volunteer find it a difficult search, mostly because they are not sure of what they want to do, what needs currently exist and if they can offer enough time.

Greater Cleveland Volunteers, a nonprofit in Cuyahoga County, enriches the community and individuals through volunteer service. They work one-on-one with anyone who wants to find out more about volunteering in Cuyahoga County.

THE TIME ISSUE

Many people feel they don’t have enough time to devote to volunteering, says Joy Banish, GCV’s executive director.

“Our agency partners with more than 100 nonprofit agencies in Cuyahoga County. We are finding there are many one-day and short-term volunteer opportunities. This fits nicely in someone’s schedule that is not able to make an ongoing commitment.”

She adds that there also are volunteer jobs that people can do at home.

Generally people aren’t sure that their time can make a difference — it does.

“Assisting at local food pantries is so uplifting. I know the agency needs help, and I’m there for them,” says volunteer Walter Reddick, who was placed through Greater Cleveland Volunteers.

When someone is not sure of what they want to do, many end up surfing the web.

Randy Helbert knew he wanted to help others, so he started looking online.

“When I was in grade school, it was discovered that I had a hearing impairment,” Helbert says.