How to Recognize Women Who Make a Difference

Be Inspired and Get Involved in Community Volunteering

(ARA) – Women are no longer settling for a backseat at the nation’s charitable and activist organizations. Today they are taking leadership roles in activism and founding their own outreach organizations, making a difference in the communities where we all live.

“Exceptional women of all ages are taking lead roles in grassroots activism,” says Carol J. Hamilton, president of L’Oreal Paris. “They are truly making a difference in their communities. By recognizing their achievements, we not only encourage their continued commitment to their causes, but we can inspire the next generation of women in their service to the community.”

L’Oréal Paris announces its third annual “Women of Worth” grassroots awards program to honor women from across the country for their inspiring volunteer work and community enrichment initiatives.

Visit www.WomenofWorth.com to nominate a woman whose volunteerism is making a beautiful difference in your world. This year, 10 “Women of Worth” honorees will receive $5,000 for their most cherished causes and a $5,000 donation will be made on their behalf to ovarian cancer research and awareness initiatives. Nominations are open from April 1st through June 16th 2008. A winner will be chosen via a public vote this fall on the Web site and that person will receive a $25,000 monetary donation to her nonprofit organization.

Visit the site to find helpful tips on how to get involved and read and share inspiring stories of worth. Here are some suggestions on how to start volunteering and helping others:

1) Research the causes and issues important to you.
Look for a group centered around issues you feel strongly about. You might already be giving money to one of these organizations and that might be a good place to begin your volunteer experience. If you can't find such an organization, why not start one yourself?

2) Consider the skills you have to offer.
If you enjoy outdoor work, have a knack for teaching, or just enjoy interacting with people, you may want to look for volunteer work that incorporates these aspects of your personality. Many positions require a volunteer who has previous familiarity with certain equipment like computers, or who possesses specific skills, such as an ability in athletics or communications.

3) Try something new.
Perhaps you would like to learn a new skill or gain exposure to a new situation. Consider a volunteer opportunity where you'll learn something new. For example, volunteering to work on the newsletter for the local animal shelter will improve your writing and editing abilities -- skills that may help you in your career.

4) Combine your goals.
Look for volunteer opportunities that can also help you achieve your other goals. For example, if you want to lose a few extra pounds, pick an active volunteer opportunity such as cleaning a park or working with kids. If you've been meaning to take a cooking class, try volunteering at a food bank that teaches cooking skills.

5) Don't over commit your schedule.
Make sure the volunteer hours you want to give fit into your hectic life, so you don't exhaust yourself, frustrate your family, shortchange the organization you're trying to help, or neglect your job.

6) Consider volunteering as a family.
Think about looking for a volunteer opportunity suitable for parents and children to do together, or for a husband and wife to take on as a team. When a family volunteers together at a nonprofit organization, the experience can bring them closer and teach young children the value of giving their time and effort.

7) Curious about virtual volunteering?
If you have computer access and the necessary skills, some organizations now offer the opportunity to do volunteer work over the computer. This might take the form of giving free legal advice or typing a college term paper for a person with a disability. This sort of volunteering might be well suited to you if you have limited time, no transportation, or a physical disability that precludes you from getting about freely.

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