Working from home has become more popular over the past few years, but it’s not for everyone. Although working from home can offer many benefits including flexibility and a less stressful environment, people can miss out on in-person social interaction. A great option for someone looking for a more flexible position but also needing social interaction is a hybrid job. So, what is a hybrid job and how do you know if it’s right for you?

What Is a Hybrid Job?

A hybrid job or hybrid work is a mix of working at the actual location of your job and working remotely. It may consist of working from home a few days a week and going to the job site the other days. There are many schedules and situations possible with hybrid work, so it's important to understand the details. You'll need to decide if the job type is right for your lifestyle, ask the right questions of a possible employer and look for hybrid positions in reputable places.

Is a Hybrid Job Right for You?

According to a recent Gallup poll, 53 percent of U.S. remote-capable employees work in hybrid jobs while only 27 percent are exclusively remote and 21 percent are onsite. While working a few days from home each week can sound ideal, you will need to ask yourself “does this match with my home life?” It is important to make sure you have a comfortable and quiet place to work from home, uninterrupted. Make sure you have an atmosphere where you can concentrate on your work and be productive.

Also, consider your own personality. Are you the type of person who needs a great deal of in-person interaction each day? If so, being at home, isolated from co-workers a few days a week may have a negative effect on your mental health.

Think about the few days a week you will need to report to work. Are these days worrisome for you due to a long commute? Are you easily distracted working in a busy office setting? It's a good idea to think clearly about your own needs.

You may find you need a fully remote job, and not a hybrid. You may even find you need to be on location each day to be most productive. Take time to think about your employment and personal needs.

Questions to Ask Employers

Keep in mind that each company has a different definition of a hybrid job. If you ask questions beforehand, you may find that the job is not a good fit from the beginning and save yourself time. Here are a few possible questions to consider asking the contact person if the answers are not included in the job description:

• "Is the hybrid option permanent or temporary?"
• "How many days per week would I be required to work on location?"
• "How much notice would I have if I were required to come to the office on a scheduled remote day?"
• "What would the internet and home office requirements be if I worked from home?"
• "Would my work hours be the same if I were on location, as if I worked from home?"

Job Boards with Hybrid Job Choices

Be careful when you search for hybrid jobs online. Since it's a very popular choice, you may find websites that claim verified hybrid job listings that are part of or lead to a scam. Here are some reputable job boards that include hybrid and fully remote job options. (Some helpful keywords to find remote and hybrid positions on job boards include "hybrid," "partially remote," "remote," "blended," "telework" and "work from home.")

• CareerOneStop.org - Job search board, career exploration and training with many work from home and hybrid jobs.
• Indeed.com - Large job board that includes many remote and hybrid choices.
• RecruitMilitary.com - Website that has large job board with many remote and hybrid options for veterans and military spouses.
• disABLEDperson.com - Works with employers who have a strong desire to hire qualified applicants with disabilities. Includes remote and hybrid positions in many industries.
• LinkedIn Jobs - Job site with many hybrid options. You can see immediately if any of your LinkedIn connections work at the company you're interested in.
• USAJOBS.gov - Resource to find Federal positions in various industries. While some hybrid positions are available, most Federal employees are returning to the office throughout the nation for their workdays.

A hybrid position could be a good option for you to explore in your job search, especially since many companies offer some form of hybrid work these days. A position like this could help you have better work-life balance. Just make sure to research the company and ask any questions you have to ensure the position fits your needs.

How Can Ticket to Work Help

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through the Ticket Program, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN) can help you along your path to financial independence. They can help you prepare for in-person and virtual interviews, understand what hybrid job opportunities are, decide if they’re the right choice for you, and help you identify potential job openings.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

Career fairs can be one of your best tactics for finding the right job. At an in-person career fair where there are many employers in the same place, you can talk to several about their organizations and potential openings. Recruiters are there to find potential employees and will answer questions you may have about their organization or the potential job opportunities. They are often the first step in the hiring process before you meet with a hiring manager.

Today, we’re sharing some tips to help you have productive conversations at a career fair. Think about what to wear. Business or business casual attire is most common. Depending on your career choice, prepare a portfolio that has examples of your work and bring multiple copies of your resume.

We know not everyone is comfortable in crowded situations or engaging with strangers. That’s why it’s most helpful if you research what organizations will be at the fair and what jobs they may have already posted. With that information, you can decide which organizations you want to talk to and how to have a conversation with them. We’ve prepared a few questions you can ask to get you started.

1. What are the Duties and Expectations of this Position?

Use your research to prepare unique questions for each employer. Asking questions specific to the job description is key to a good first impression. You’ll want to know as much as possible about the work itself. You’ll also want to know if you’ll be part of a team or an individual contributor. Asking about expectations, how you’ll be evaluated and what opportunities for advancement are will help you decide if the position will be right for you.

2. What are the Opportunities for Growth?

Many organizations invest in the professional growth of their employees. Because progress in your career results from increasing your value to an organization, opportunities for additional training and education like specific training for the job, coursework towards a certificate or classes about new technology, can advance your career and open new job opportunities.

3. What has Your Experience Been in the Organization?

Don’t forget to ask the career fair representative about their experience. What do they like about the organization? Ask about their work history: how did they get started? How long have they been with the organization? At a career fair, you can hear from someone who may not be the hiring manager for your future position, but who may be able to give you a sense of the atmosphere and environment so you can assess whether it sounds like a good fit for you.

4. What is the Organization’s Outlook for the Future?

Asking about future plans can help you see how you could fit into their long-term strategy. Can you foresee opportunities down the road with this organization? Can you get a sense of their culture and values from their goals and plans? Some examples might have to do with expanding their markets internationally or improving their environmental sustainability. Perhaps they want to develop new products or services. These types of insights can contribute to your own decision making.

5. What Does the Hiring Process Include?

The hiring process is different at every organization and learning about each one’s process can help you get an idea for the steps involved and likely timeline. Some organizations conduct multiple rounds of interviews with several individuals. Others may only require you to meet with one or two people. Some require background checks or that you complete certain tests. Because you’ll want to know what to expect and what the timeline may be, this is an important question to ask.

Be sure to get the representative’s contact information if you’re interested in a position. After talking to a lot of people at a career fair, it may be hard to remember who you want to thank and follow up with.

Need Help Getting Ready?

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can help! The Ticket Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the services and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

Every month, we share upcoming nationwide career fair opportunities, both in person and virtual. Be sure to subscribe to our blog for updates.

Through the Ticket Program, you’ll have access to service providers, including Employment Networks (EN), that can help you find and prepare for career fairs and interviews. ENs can help you polish your resume, practice mock interviews with you, give you tips on how to dress and what to bring to a career fair. ENs can help you after the career fair too. They can help you with writing a cover letter, applying for jobs, interview prep, and asking for reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

With lower stress levels, increased flexibility and a better work-life balance, working from home is becoming more popular. Unfortunately, scammers have picked up on the increased demand for work from home jobs. Ask yourself these questions to help determine if a work from home job sounds like a scam.

1. Does the Job Seem Too Good to be True?

If a job seems too good to be true, it likely is. For example, if a company is offering compensation well above the average pay for that position, it’s likely a scam. If you’re offered a position that you are significantly underqualified for, investigate the company further to determine if it’s a scam.

2. Can You Find Information About the Company Online?

Research the company to learn more about them. Do they have a professional website? Are you able to find people who work there on LinkedIn? Do they have a social media presence?

A legitimate company will have a professional website that provides information about what the company does and their values. They also likely have a social media presence of some kind. They don’t have to be active on all platforms, but they probably have an account on at least one of the major platforms.

3. Is the Company Asking You to Spend Money?

One of the most common scams involving work from home jobs is potential employers asking you to spend your money during the application process. A legitimate company will not ask you to send them money.

One common scam is a company sending you a check to buy equipment for your job, but it is for too much money. They then ask you to send the remainder of the money to them. This is a scam – you will be out the cost of the equipment as well as the remainder of the money, as the check you cash will bounce.

Many times, these ways of asking for money are scams, but there are some employers that are legitimate who ask for paid background checks and fingerprint scans. If you need to pay for a background check, you should pay the company performing the background check directly.

4. How Does the Company Communicate?

A legitimate company should only contact you through phone or email during the hiring process. If a potential employer tries to contact you through other platforms such as WhatsApp, it is likely a scam.

If a hiring agent is overly eager to get in contact with you, it’s often a sign of a scam. Scam companies will often email and call numerous times. A real company will reach out and then send one follow-up email or call you if they have a hard time contacting you.

5. Did You Have an Interview?

Scam companies will often offer you a job without an interview process. A legitimate company will want every applicant to go through a thorough screening. Legitimate companies will often have you participate in multiple interviews to understand your background and how it applies to their work.

How Can Ticket to Work Help?

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the services and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

The Ticket Program can support you as you look for different forms of employment, including work from home and in-person jobs. Through the Ticket Program, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN) can help you find the right position. Service providers offer both in-person and remote services and can help you find the work you’re looking for. Your Ticket Program service provider can help you spot a scam and provide tips for researching companies.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

Have you ever wondered why you’re not getting responses to all those resumes you’ve been sending to employers? There could be a variety of reasons, but today we're talking about one specific reason ─ an Applicant Tracking System or ATS.

So, what is an ATS? According to LinkedIn, “ATS is a hiring software tool that helps employers collect, filter, and assess candidate data. ATS software automates the more menial, error-prone aspects of recruiting — like resume scanning and candidate screening — so employers can make better, faster hires.”

Because employers receive multiple resumes in response to job openings, they often use ATS software to assess resumes. In fact, LinkedIn reports that almost 99% of Fortune 500 companies use computerized ATS in hiring.

If a potential employer may be using an ATS, below are some tips you can use to customize your resume and increase your chances of receiving a request for an interview.

Make Your Resume ATS Friendly

1. Format Matters
   When writing your resume, do not use pictures, tables, columns, text boxes or any other type of graphic element. This will confuse the software and put your resume at the bottom of the pile. When labeling sections on your resume, do not use headers; bold the section name instead.
    
2. Choose Font Wisely
   Your resume should have an ATS-friendly font such as Calibri, Arial, Helvetica, Georgia or Times New Roman. For body text, use a font between 10-12 points. Do not go for bold or fancy fonts; the ATS software won’t recognize them.
    
3. Save Your Document in an ATS-Friendly Format
   When saving your resume, make sure it is saved as a PDF or DOCX file. Saving as a PDF means no one can edit your resume, accidentally or intentionally. Do not save your file as a GIF, PNG, JPG, or TXT, as the ATS may not be able to read them. If you are unsure what format to use, recheck the application or job listing to see if there are any specific directions.
    
4. Use Keywords... but Naturally
   While you want to use keywords in your resume, be sure to put them where they make sense. You can list keywords in the descriptions of your previous positions or under your skill sets.
    
5. Use a Resume Checker 
   Once you have formatted your resume, you can check to see how it stands out using a free online resume checker tool. Some examples include Jobscan, LiveCareer and Resume Worded. Be sure to check online reviews before using any tools to see how widely accepted they are.
    

How Can Ticket to Work Help

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with their employment team to receive the services and supports they need to help customize and polish their resumes. If you’re eligible, your employment team can help you every step of the way; from resume development, to interview practice and on-the-job support.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

Searching for a job is time consuming. We know how frustrating it can be when you don’t immediately find a job. One way to make the most of your opportunities is to avoid making some of these common mistakes.

1. Your Resume or Cover Letter Isn’t Specific to the Job

The same resume and cover letter won’t work for every employer or every job. Tailor your resume to the job you’re applying for. Employers want a candidate who matches their job description, so make sure to highlight your most relevant experience for each position. When writing your cover letter, showcase the skills that are most applicable to the specific job. Identify the characteristics or skills that are in the job description and show how your experience relates to them. A cover letter gives potential employers a more complete understanding of your skillset.

2. Your Resume Isn’t Formatted Correctly for an Applicant Tracking System

As the use of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) increases, so does the number of employers that use applicant tracking systems (ATS) and AI to read resumes. You could be the perfect candidate for a job, but your resume may be missing certain keywords or AI may not be able to read it. This can cause your resume to be rejected and not make it to the hiring manager’s desk.

3. You’re Applying for the Wrong Jobs

Carefully look at the jobs you’re applying for to ensure you have the right level of qualification. Most people stay away from applying to jobs they are not qualified for, but being overqualified can be just as problematic. Employers don’t want to hire a candidate who is overqualified because they are more likely to get bored in the position and leave. Employers don’t want to have to fill the position again in six months.

4. You’re Not Letting Your Professional Network Know About Your Job Search

You may have built a professional network of colleagues in the field you’re interested in, but are you utilizing your network? Make sure your network knows that you are looking for a job. Share your job search on LinkedIn, post on personal social media, and talk about your job search while not at work. Often, knowing the right people can get you an interview or even a job.

5. You’re Not Prepared for Your Interview

Interviews and phone screenings give the interviewer an opportunity to get to know you. It is important to be prepared for both after applying for a job. Some phone screens are scheduled, and others aren’t. Be sure to answer the phone in a professional manner, be familiar with the company’s work, be prepared to ask questions about the position, and have an idea of how much you’d like to be paid. 

6. You Didn’t Prepare Your References

It is important to inform your references that you’re applying for jobs. Make sure you have their permission to use them as a reference and inform them of the positions you’re applying for. Different positions require different skills, so if they know the position you are applying for they can highlight your skills that fit that position. You may also want to send them your cover letter and resume, so they are up to date on your current work experience. You could even ask them for feedback.

7. You Experienced Setbacks in the Interview Process

Portraying the right amount of excitement and skills is essential in the interview process. You want to highlight your skillset and why you think you’re a good candidate. It is important to show enthusiasm about the position and the company. Make sure to show up a little early and dress appropriately for the job.

How Can Ticket to Work Help

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the services and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

The Ticket Program can support you throughout every step of your job search. Through the Ticket Program, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN) can assist you with your job search. ENs can help you write your resume and cover letter, find the right jobs to apply for and prepare you for an interview. If you’re not having success in your job search, you can ask your service provider for suggestions to improve your chances.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.; or visit https://choosework.ssa.gov.

Summer jobs are not only a great way to try working but also to learn what employers expect of employees in any employment position. A summer job may be temporary, but the lessons and skills learned can last forever. In this blog post, we explore five ways to make the most of your summer job.

1. Treat it Like a Permanent Job

One way to make the most of a summer job is to treat it like a full-time or permanent job. This means showing up to work on time (or even early) every day. Showing up promptly and consistently tells your manager and coworkers you are reliable. If you’re sick or have an emergency, be sure to contact your manager.

Remember to act professionally and respect your employer and any customers. Take your summer job seriously and look at it as an opportunity to earn some money and gain experience that can help you in the future.

2. Look for Ways to Help

Once you complete all your assigned tasks, it’s not time to wait around. Looking for other ways to help shows that you are a reliable team member who cares about helping others. It also demonstrates that you are willing to go above and beyond to help the organization.

3. Make Connections

As with any job, it is important to network and interact with your coworkers and managers. It makes work more enjoyable, and it will also help in the future when you may need references or are looking for other job opportunities. Former coworkers can become friends who lead to connections with even more people.

4. Do Your Best

In addition to showing up on time and completing your tasks, make sure you put your best effort forward. Some tasks can be completed easily or quickly, but it takes effort to get them done correctly and efficiently. If you have difficulty understanding a task, remember to ask questions. Your coworker or manager will likely be happy to help.

5. Have a Positive Attitude

In any situation, things can go wrong. Someone may not have shown up to work, a machine may be broken, or an order may be late. No matter what happens, keep a positive attitude. Your ability to handle change and adapt quickly are assets that employers respect. Your attitude can be contagious and help the people around you work with you to find solutions.

How Can Ticket to Work Help

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the services and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

The Ticket Program can support you with different forms of employment, including part time, seasonal and full time. Through the Ticket Program, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN) can help you understand available Social Security Work Incentives, like the Student Earned Income Exclusion, and give you tips for getting the most out of your summer work experience.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.; or visit https://choosework.ssa.gov/

This year, June 20 is the first day of summer. For some people, summer means beaches, no school, BBQs or vacation trips. For others, it means starting a summer job. Whatever your summer plans may be, because the first day of summer has the most daylight hours of the entire year, it is a good time to remember how to take care of yourself in the sunshine and heat. Today, we’re refreshing our tips on how to beat the sun if you’re going to be outside, especially if you’re thinking about or already working in a non-office job.

1. Stay hydrated: It’s important to stay hydrated on especially hot days. This means drinking plenty of water or other fluids that contain electrolytes, such as sports drinks, even before you start your outside work, as well as during the day.
    
2. Stay protected: Just like drinking water before starting your work, it’s important to apply sunscreen at least an hour before you go out so that it has time to take effect. Keep applying sunscreen throughout the day if you are able. Also, look for shaded areas. If you cannot work in a shaded area, find one or an air-conditioned area for your breaks. Less exposure to the sun gives your body time to recuperate from the heat.
    
3. Use your accommodations: Extra time in the sun and heat can wear your body down. If you are able, ask for extra breaks to make sure you are rested, well hydrated, and that you have enough sunscreen.
   If you need help asking for accommodations, a Ticket to Work service provider, such as an Employment Network (EN), can help you with the resources you need to talk to your employer.
    
4. Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you feel. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can include several symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, slurred speech, thirst, rapid heart rate, nausea and vomiting. Make sure to monitor your symptoms while you are working to determine when you need breaks. And NEVER skip a break.

Ticket to Work

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the service and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

Outdoor jobs can be rewarding and educational, but during the summer months they can also be draining if you’re not prepared. If you’re interested in an outdoor job, your Ticket Program service provider can help answer questions about working outdoors, accommodations you may consider and provide tips for how to stay safe and productive at work.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar.

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program has a great opportunity for you if you’re interested in joining the workforce — opt-in to receive text messages and unlock a world of support and guidance!

The Ticket Program is designed for individuals ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and aspire to join the workforce. This program empowers individuals with disabilities to take control of their careers, providing them with the tools and resources to thrive in the professional world.

Opt in to receive information about the Ticket Program via text. Text the word "TICKET" to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. You can opt out at any time.

By opting in to receive text messages from the Ticket Program, you're opening the door to valuable insights and information. Here's what you can expect:

1. Expert Advice and Encouragement: Need practical tips for navigating the job market? Our text messages lead you to resources that are packed with advice, encouragement, and success stories from individuals who have joined the workforce with help from the Ticket Program.
    
2. Stay Informed, Stay Ahead: With text updates from the Ticket Program, you'll be the first to know about Choose Work! Blog posts, upcoming events, and important milestones on your journey to employment. Stay informed and stay ahead of the curve!
    
3. Pathways to Employment: Embarking on the path to employment can feel daunting, but you don't have to go it alone. Our text messages will guide you towards the right resources.

Ready to get started? Opting in is as easy as sending a quick text! Simply text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292, and you're all set. Standard messaging rates may apply.

If at any time you decide that text updates aren't for you, no worries! You can opt out with just a simple text message.

Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Join the thousands of individuals who are unlocking their potential with Social Security's Ticket to Work Program. Text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar.

Did you know that you can volunteer with federal government agencies? You can get experience in a variety of occupational fields, such as natural resource management and conservation, heritage and cultural preservation, recreation management and visitor services. Through these volunteer opportunities, you can lend your time and talents to important national priorities while learning about potential new careers.

Why Volunteer for a Federal Agency?

Volunteering with a federal agency allows you to directly participate in helping to meet national needs like maintaining national parks and providing disaster relief. It’s also an opportunity to learn about a variety of government services. Additionally, if you have an interest in working for the federal government, volunteering provides a way to get experience, network and potentially meet hiring managers. Not all federal agencies offer volunteer programs, but here are some resources to help you find opportunities.

Resources for Federal Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer.gov - Volunteer.gov is a volunteer recruitment and management portal for people who want to support causes managed by federal agencies. You can use Volunteer.gov to find and apply for volunteer opportunities and track your volunteer hours. When you search on the website, you can narrow the search by federal agency, volunteer activity, and physical activity level.

Americorps.gov - AmeriCorps brings people together to work on the country’s challenges through national service. AmeriCorps volunteers serve with nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving communities. AmeriCorps offers long-term voluntary projects, as well as one-day opportunities like September 11 Day of Service and Remembrance and Earth Day. There are opportunities for various time commitment levels and skills.

National Park Service - Volunteers support the National Park Service in its mission to preserve and protect our national parks. You can volunteer for a day or year-round, on your own or with a group. Volunteer opportunities are available nationwide including in U.S. Territories. You can volunteer to maintain trails, conduct research on wildlife, support libraries or produce art. There are many more volunteer roles available, and the National Park Service can help you find the right fit.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - This federal agency is responsible for the conservation and management of fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service offers a variety of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Through their work to conserve natural resources, they provide communities with healthier environments, clean water, flood control and a strong economy. There are volunteer opportunities with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for all ages, interests and abilities. Volunteers may lead tours, conduct plant and animal surveys, or help staff a refuge nature store.

As a volunteer with the federal government, you can contribute to meaningful causes and learn valuable skills. It’s rewarding work that can lead to other experiences that can help you on your path to work and financial independence.

Ticket to Work

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the service and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

Through the Ticket Program, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN) can help identify volunteer opportunities to build skills on your current job, or turn volunteer work into a paid position.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.; or visit https://choosework.ssa.gov.

Have you considered how volunteering can help your career? Volunteer activities can be just as helpful as work experience. They show that you’re willing to get experience in areas that interest you, despite not getting paid or being paid or “off the clock”. Volunteering can help you learn new skills that lead to career growth. Let’s take a look at some popular questions people have about the link between volunteering and career growth.

What Work Skills Can I Learn By Volunteering?

The possibilities are endless. Volunteer opportunities can help you learn skills such as budgeting, food service, working on a computer and more. You can also learn soft skills, or skills that can be transferred to many jobs such as leadership, networking and problem solving.

You can learn various skill sets depending on where you volunteer. For example, if you volunteer at a thrift store, you may learn customer service, organization, and cashier skills. You may also pick up communication and teamwork skills as you work with other people. More in-demand job skills you can learn by volunteering include:

• Public speaking
• Clerical tasks
• Fundraising
• Technology
• Time management
• Multitasking

Where Should I Volunteer?

If you want your volunteer work to directly enhance your career, it’s a good idea to find a placement where you can learn or improve specific job skills. For example, if you want to gain skills for a career in education, explore opportunities in schools, youth community centers or tutoring organizations. You may be able get experience while working closely with an educator and possibly find a mentor. Visit the U.S. Department of Education for volunteer opportunities in education. If you’re interested in a career in event planning, many nonprofit organizations and event venues need volunteers in all areas. National nonprofits such as the American Cancer Society and the Alzheimer’s Association host events year-round where volunteers are needed.

Can Volunteer Work Fill Employment Gaps on a Resume?

Yes. Volunteer work is a great activity to add to your resume during the times you were unemployed. It shows a potential employer that you kept busy and had a real desire to contribute. If you can show that you were productive and learned work skills, it gives an employer a broader view of what you may bring to their company or organization. Even if your volunteer work does not directly relate to your career, it still can help, not only on your resume, but in your community!

Can Volunteering Actually Get Me a Job?

It is possible, but not guaranteed. Volunteering can help you meet community members and neighbors who may have contacts in your career area. Share your career goals with people who have similar interests or are employed in your field. You can also share your career goals with the staff at your volunteer location, if it’s a place you’d like to work. The staff may keep you in mind for future job openings, paid internships, or even apprenticeships if available.

Volunteering can not only help you give back to your community, but it can have a positive impact on your career. Here are a few resources for virtual and on-site listings to get started!

• Volunteermatch
• Points of Light
• Idealist
• Volunteer.gov

How Can Ticket to Work Help?

Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the service and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

Through the Ticket Program, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN), can help determine where you may need additional skills and documented experiences. They can help you choose volunteer roles that can build your resume.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, call our TTY at 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.