We know these are challenging times. With rising unemployment and fewer part-time opportunities available, it’s natural to feel discouraged. But how we approach this moment matters. Research on growth vs. fixed mindsets shows that when we believe our abilities can be developed through effort and learning, we are more resilient and more likely to succeed (Dweck, 2006; Yeager & Dweck, 2012). Choosing a growth mindset can help us see today’s challenges as opportunities to adapt and move forward.
Today’s Job Market
- Only 22,000 jobs were added in August 2025.
- The unemployment rate rose to 4.3%, the highest in four years (Washington Post, 2025)
- Part-time job seekers face tough competition and fewer openings.
Why Volunteering Matters
Volunteering is more than giving back—it’s a way to:
- Strengthen in-demand skills like communication, teamwork, organization, and digital literacy.
- Demonstrate adaptability and engagement to employers.
- Expand professional networks and open doors to opportunities.
- Keeps you connected to your community and builds relationships.
A national study found that volunteering boosts your chances of finding a job by 27%—and even more for those facing greater barriers (CNCS, 2013).
How to Use Volunteering to Build Skills
- Assess your skill gaps: What do part-time employers in your field look for—customer service, digital skills, organization?
- Choose the right volunteer role:
- Tutoring or mentoring → builds leadership & communication
- Event coordination → develops organization & teamwork
- Outreach or data entry → strengthens digital & administrative skills
- Track your growth: Add volunteer experiences to your résumé and highlight them in interviews.
Call to Action
Think of volunteering as an investment in yourself. It keeps you learning, connected, and ready for new opportunities—even in a challenging job market.
Looking for meaningful volunteer roles that can build your skills? Click on this link for the Bay Area Volunteer Information Center
Sources:
- Dweck, C. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House.
- Yeager, D. S., & Dweck, C. S. (2012). Mindsets That Promote Resilience. Educational Psychologist, 47(4), 302–314.
- Corporation for National and Community Service. (2013). Volunteering as a Pathway to Employment.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025). Employment Situation Summary.