Volunteerism in neighborhood settings may be introduced to individuals as a way of finding a “vocational match.” Someone with limited or no work experience can provide a valued service to the community while evaluating the volunteer environment as a possible employment interest. It provides the opportunity for an individual to determine the type of work environment and job skills they are most interested in pursuing. Volunteering in various settings can also be a means of developing social relationships and becoming part of a social or vocational group.

West Bay has supported individuals to volunteer in settings such as: being a friendly visitor in a nursing home, delivering Meals on Wheels to elderly folks, assisting with mailings for businesses such as the RI Blood Center and Child Reach, sorting donated foods at the RI Food Bank, and providing support at a daycare facility.

All of these sites provided valuable experience to individuals and increased self esteem, while also enabling them to give back to their community.