Change your life. Volunteer now.

In the run up to this year's Volunteering Week we took a look at the many different ways volunteering can make a difference.

Why volunteer?
We tend to look at volunteering as a one-way street, thinking of it only as what we can do for others.  What we forget is that volunteering is something from which both sides can benefit enormously.  Communities can be transformed by the selfless commitment of volunteers, whilst volunteers can learn new skills, form enduring friendships and undergo their own personal transformations every bit as profound as those of the communities and individuals they help.

Here are some of the organisations that have featured on the Channel, all of whom are looking for volunteers. Just click to take a look at each one and see if you can find your passion.

If these aren't what excite you, you can find more opportunities near where you live with Do-it. We also have two factsheets, one for opportunities in the UK and one for those overseas.

The Scout Association
The Scouts have a waiting list of young people eager to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and are looking for adult volunteers. Find what you can do and how you can apply to volunteer with the Scouts.

Leap Anywhere
Find ways to have fun whilst benefitting great causes and the environment so you can feel amazing, meet new people and help change the world.

Duke of Edinburgh
The D of E, as almost everyone tends to call it, says it "doesnít judge but prefers to help."  Find out how you can help as a volunteer and what kind of a role you can play.

Raleigh International
If youíre looking to volunteer overseas in your gap year, or you want to take a career break and volunteer check out Raleigh International.

St. John's Ambulance
A familiar sight at football matches, concerts, and large and small community events, St. John's Ambulance volunteers offer a reassuring presence and vital first aid help to the public. Check out the variety of ways you can volunteer with St. John's.

V
v describes itself as a "national charity dedicated to helping young people volunteer." They have information and grants available to encourage volunteering, for those between 16-25.  Check out their website www.vinspired.com to see how you can benefit.

The Vine Trust
The Vine Trust started as a local community response to the famine in Ethiopia and Sudan in 1985. Churches in Bo'ness, Scotland felt compelled to do something. They now work internationally and are looking for people who could volunteer to help in Peru. Take a look at their Peru project and see how you can make a difference.

National Trust
Volunteers play an important role in the vital the conservation work required to keep many of the UKís most loved buildings and heritage sites open. The National Trust website has all the information and the latest vacancies.

Voluntary Arts England
If you volunteer with an arts group and want help and support, or you would like to start your own group, VAE can offer you advice.