Finding the Right Fit
So you want to do something for others, but you don’t know where to start.

Do what you want to do. Choose something that is meaningful to you - whether it is working with animals, children or even folks with arthritis. You are in control.

Hone your skills. What you choose might depend on your education or skills. Are you good with building things? Maybe Habitat for Humanity is your speed. Or maybe you can juggle and do magic tricks. Stop by the nearest children’s hospital to lend a hand. If you are a strong organizational skills, maybe you can help plan the next educational forum at your local Arthritis Foundation office.

Be honest. Clearly state your limitations, including what times you are available to help and any limitations due to arthritis. Let them know that you have a chronic illness that can flare at any time. Tell them that an occasional cancellation due to health concerns doesn’t mean you are any less committed.

Try a little respect. Make sure the organization you are working with treats you and other volunteers with dignity and respect. They should be accommodating, friendly and helpful. If you are feeling that these things are missing, look for a new place to volunteer your services.

Learn to say no. While it is great to be able to give time to many places, you need to make sure you aren’t saying yes to somebody because you can’t seem to say no. Don’t feel the need to have a good excuse for doing it. Just say, “That time isn’t convenient for me, but thank you for asking.” You don’t want to get roped in to doing things you don’t want to do for people you don’t want to do it for just because you feel guilty about turning them down.

Have fun. Don't forget to relax and enjoy this time. As Martha Stewart would say, "It's a good thing."