How to build a Volunteer Portfolio Objectives Define

How to build a Volunteer Portfolio

Objectives • Define Portfolio • Define Purpose & Benefits • How to create Portfolio

What is a Portfolio • A file to show your achievements • Document the scope and quality of experience and training • A show and tell resume, a sophisticated scrapbook

Two Main Purposes • To keep track of what you have done • • • When you did it Skills learned or developed Your achievements • A single place to keep • • • Samples of work Awards Documentation of professional abilities

How Do I Start Creating a Portfolio? Steps 1 - Self Assessment 2 - Decide what to include 3 - Design and arrange 4 -Review your Portfolio Think about the big picture

Step 1 – Self Assessment • Reflect and look at your skills, abilities, and experiences • How would I like to be remembered? • What am I passionate about? • Think “story”

Step 2 – What to include? • Find evidence of involvement to include • Gather together all of your information • Two projects when I made a difference

Step 2 - Examples Volunteer positions descriptions Samples of volunteer accomplishments Reports / databases Brochures/Newsletters/Newspaper Articles/Training Certificate • Speaking engagements/notes • •

Step 2 cont. … • Letters/emails of recommendations • Thank you letters/cards • Pictures of public recognition, awards, commendations • Record of speaking engagements/Topic and Audience

Step 3 - Design and Arrange • Choose an organizational method that best illustrates your accomplishments. • Make it visually appealing • Digital/Electronic/Online • Binder

Step 3 - Design & Arrange • Design a cover sheet • Use copies, not originals • Include a summary statement for each example • Use consistent font, size, and style • Use sheet protectors / pocket pages • Use index tabs or title pages • Omit page number

Step 4 - Review • • Update regularly Know your portfolio inside and out Be able to find items quickly Valuable tool for volunteer & professional experience

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