“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
— Winston Churchill
One issue many mariners face is not having a social network wherever they find themselves when they are off a ship. Too often time at home is minimal, and much of that is spent trying to adjust to the new time zone and get used to not working twelve hours a day seven days a week.
One of the best things we can do in these scenarios is find a way to be active. Many of us go to the gym, or seek a trivia night at the bar. Another great way to be active, make lasting friendships, and develop new skills and career contacts is by volunteering. There are no shortage of worthy causes in every town and city around the nation and world as a whole. What is more is as Merchant Mariners we have a uniquely high work ethic and eclectic range of skills that can be extremely valuable. Additionally, many of us have time in the day.
Use the links below to find a local charities and ship based volunteer opportunities that can become great opportunities while at home.