You are about to or have recently completed your volunteer commitment.
Undoubtedly your volunteer experience was filled with both good and hard
times, times of pain, times of joy, and times of growth. You have grown
professionally, personally, and spiritually. Now it’s time to look back
on all that has happened and figure out what it all means.
It is also time to look forward and ask yourself, "What’s
Next?" and "What do I want now: More training? A new vocation? A
return to my previous career plans? How do I incorporate my volunteer
experience into the rest of my life?"
This "What’s Next?" Notebook is
designed to assist and guide you as you make some of these decisions.
There are several resources available to you as you set out on the next
leg of your journey. This booklet will point you toward many of these
resources, and perhaps give you some new ideas.
We suggest you use this booklet in this way: first, familiarize
yourself with the contents of this Notebook (see the sidebar on the right). Second, work through the information about "Transitions."
Then, give yourself ample time to complete a "Re-Entry
Self-Evaluation." This will provide you with an excellent
opportunity to focus your thoughts and give you some new ideas before you
begin the practical work of re-entry.
This time of transition contains exciting opportunities for creativity
and growth. You have the freedom to make decisions that will alter the
rest of your life. With prayer, careful thought, and thorough preparation,
it can be a very rewarding time. The Pallotti Center staff, along with the
staff of your volunteer program, is available to assist you in this
transition.
We suggest you explore this site or contact us by email or phone to learn
about our Job Bank,
Network
of Former Volunteers and Missioners, as well as our free
publication Staying Connected.
It is written specifically for former volunteers and covers issues of
post-volunteer life. Our website also contains many additional
resources designed to support current and former volunteers... like you!
For more information on any of the above, contact
our National Office!
Thank you for the contributions you have made as a volunteer. May the
next steps of your journey be rich and rewarding for you. Blessings to
you!
~The Pallotti Center Staff