L'Oreal Paris (ARA) - Historically women are the shapers of home and family. But many women today extend their nurturing role to the entire community through activism and charity work that has a significant impact in the lives of individuals and society as a whole.

"Exceptional women of all ages are taking lead roles in making a difference in their communities," says Karen Fondu, president of L'Oreal Paris. "They have seen the obstacles that are facing so many during these challenging times and have empowered themselves and others to make a positive impact. By harnessing the power of service, these incredible women are helping us all to achieve our common goals."

L'Oréal Paris is sponsoring its fourth annual "Women of Worth" grassroots awards program to honor women from across the country for their inspiring volunteer work and community enrichment initiatives.

Now through July 13, you can visit www.WomenofWorth.com to nominate a woman whose volunteerism is making a beautiful difference in your world. This year, 10 "Women of Worth" honorees will receive $5,000 for their most cherished causes and a $5,000 donation will be made on their behalf to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund for ovarian cancer research and awareness initiatives. This fall an online public vote will be held to select the national honoree. The woman with the most votes will receive a $25,000 monetary donation to her nonprofit organization.

Visit the site to find helpful tips on how to get involved and read and share inspiring stories of worth. Here are some suggestions on how to start volunteering and helping others:

1) Research the causes and issues important to you.
Look for a group centered around issues you feel strongly about. You might already be giving money to one of these organizations and that might be a good place to begin your volunteer experience. If you can't find such an organization, why not start one yourself?

2) Consider the skills you have to offer.
If you enjoy outdoor work, have a knack for teaching, or just enjoy interacting with people, you may want to look for volunteer work that incorporates these aspects of your personality. Many positions require a volunteer who has previous familiarity with certain equipment like computers, or who possesses specific skills, such as an ability in athletics or communications.

3) Try something new.
Perhaps you would like to learn a new skill or gain exposure to a new situation. Consider a volunteer opportunity where you'll learn something new. For example, volunteering to work on the newsletter for the local animal shelter will improve your writing and editing abilities -- skills that may help you in your career.

4) Combine your goals.
Look for volunteer opportunities that can also help you achieve your other goals. For example, if you want to lose a few extra pounds, pick an active volunteer opportunity such as cleaning a park or working with kids. If you've been meaning to take a cooking class, try volunteering at a food bank that teaches cooking skills.

5) Don't over commit your schedule.
Make sure the volunteer hours you want to give fit into your hectic life, so you don't exhaust yourself, frustrate your family, shortchange the organization you're trying to help, or neglect your job.

6) Non-profits may have questions too.
While most non-profits are eager to find volunteer help, they have to be careful when accepting the services offered by those who are unknown to them. If you contact an organization with an offer to volunteer your time, you may be asked to come in for an interview, fill out a volunteer application, or describe your qualifications and background just as you would at an interview for a paying job.

7) Consider volunteering as a family.
Think about looking for a volunteer opportunity suitable for parents and children to do together, or for a husband and wife to take on as a team. When a family volunteers together at a nonprofit organization, the experience can bring them closer and teach young children the value of giving their time and effort.

8) Curious about virtual volunteering?
If you have computer access and the necessary skills, some organizations now offer the opportunity to do volunteer work over the computer. This might take the form of giving free legal advice or typing a college term paper for a person with a disability. This sort of volunteering might be well suited to you if you have limited time, no transportation, or a physical disability that precludes you from getting about freely.

9) I never thought of that.
Many community groups are looking for volunteers, and some may not have occurred to you. Here are some ideas:
* Day care centers, neighborhood watch, public schools and colleges
* Halfway houses, community theaters, drug rehabilitation centers
* Fraternal organizations and civic clubs

10) Give voice to your heart through volunteering.
Bring your heart and your sense of humor to your volunteer service, along with your enthusiastic spirit, which in itself is a priceless gift. What you'll get back will be immeasurable!

Courtesy of ARAcontent