How to give back (One for the Americans)

[Arlen]

Thanks for all the suggestions, guys.
Right now I am putting out feelers and trying to find out what I might be able to do as a career vs what would be just volunteering on the side.

I've contacted a few different places like C.A.P and Idaho Air National Guard. Just trying to find a way of doing something without having to leave Diane all over again.
It's all a bit complicated so I'm trying to just get all the info I can.

Here's hoping I can sort it out.

[Sheep In Wolf's Clothing]

I know in Canada there is a network of Volunteer Bureaus. They are centralize office where non-profits and other agencies go to "advertise" their volunteer needs. There might be something like that in your new state.

Congrats Arlen for wanting to volunteer! From a person who works with volunteers and who volunteers, thank you!!
Sara

[davedove]

I've contacted a few different places like C.A.P and Idaho Air National Guard. Just trying to find a way of doing something without having to leave Diane all over again.
It's all a bit complicated so I'm trying to just get all the info I can.

Understand that if you go the Guard route, you could very well be deployed, especially with the current hostilities. Much of the US's warfighting capability now resides in Reserve and Guard units. I'm not trying to discourage you joining there, just giving you something to consider.

CAP is completely voluntary, and doesn't pay anything, so it would be something to do on the side.

There are lots of great ideas here, but you'll have to make your own decision. We all have our favorites, but only you can determine where you'll "fit".

[sharpdressedscot]

Mind that you're only deployed if you are in active duty and work full time there.

[davedove]

Mind that you're only deployed if you are in active duty and work full time there.

Not at all true anymore. Many Guard units have been activated and deployed in the current conflict.

The old theory (Cold War) was that the Active duty would go first, then Reserve and Guard units would be ramped up if the conflict lasted long enough.

The new practice is that mainly quick response units are active duty (82nd Ariborne, 10th Mountain, etc.). Other units are in Reserve and Guard until there is a major conflict, at which time they may be among the first to deploy. Some support units are 100% Reserve and Guard, as they're not needed unless there is a major conflict.

[Arlen]

I know that there's a good chance of me being deployed.

Right now I am seriously considering taking a career with The Idaho air national guard.
My concerns are more to do with how soon Diane and I would have to be parted so I am looking into what careers I could have with them and how soon I would be shipped out.

We'll see how it all goes in the end.

Whatever happens I will find some way to do good and get by!

[J.B. Simpson]

You could always become an EMT and work for a Fire Department depending on what area of Idaho you are moving to. Even if you get another full time job you could still volunteer as a FF/EMT. As mentioned earlier hospitals also use EMT's from time to time to assist their staff.

Good luck in whatever you decide!

[James MacMillan]

Arlen - you have had some great suggestions here about different professions to look into - I would offer another take on the situation. Don't look for a job - look for a way of living. There is an underground movement called "Pay it forward" that is a life style not a specific job. Live your life by the Golden Rule. Treat others as you would want to be treated. Seek to make life better for your fellow humans, and it won't matter if you are a garbage collector or a priest. Each profession can be a calling. Act with honor and integrity in everything you do. You won't go wrong!