Volunteering 101: How Anyone Can Start Giving Back

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that giving back doesn’t require a title, a platform, or a perfect past.

When I first got out of prison, I wasn’t sure I had anything to offer. I felt like my past disqualified me from showing up in places that needed help. But over time, I realized something simple: volunteering isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being present.

You don’t have to save the world. You just have to show up where you are, with what you’ve got.

So, Where Do You Start?

It’s easier than most people think. Here’s how I began, and how you can too.

1. Start Small (and Local)

The first time I volunteered, it wasn’t part of some big master plan. I just started speaking to young men on the wrong path in prison, through Operation Turnaround.

You don’t have to join a committee or start a foundation. Just ask around. Schools, shelters, animal rescues, libraries. Someone always needs a hand.

2. Don’t Wait to Be Asked

Sometimes people hesitate because they don’t want to impose. But trust me, organizations are often praying someone will step forward.

If you’ve got a skill (or even just a strong back), offer it. If you see a problem you can help with, step in.

You don’t need permission to be generous.

3. Play the Long Game

Volunteering is about consistency.

Whether you’re packing meals once a week or mentoring a kid once a month, showing up regularly makes the biggest impact, and it teaches you more than you expect.

4. Let Go of Ego

One of the hardest lessons? Service isn’t about you.

It’s not about being thanked. It’s not about being seen. It’s about meeting needs, quietly and without conditions.

Sometimes that means doing the unglamorous stuff. Cleaning bathrooms. Sorting donations. Sitting with someone who just needs to be heard.

Why It’s Worth It

Giving back gave me back a sense of purpose. No matter who you are or where you’ve been, you can do that too.

We don’t need more perfect people. We need more people willing to try.

The world changes not through grand gestures, but through thousands of quiet acts of service. And anyone can be part of that.

— Mark Edgington

This article also appears on https://medium.com/@markedgington, where you can learn more about Mark Edgington’s ongoing work.