Discovering Unemployment's Upside

While some mine misery from unfortunate situations, others seek opportunity. Such is the case of Marya Wolfman. After getting laid off from her job at Monster Worldwide earlier this year, Wolfman decided that apart from job hunting, she'd focus on writing her science fiction novel.

But when that didn't prove fulfilling enough she started volunteering her services at the local Boys & Girls Club and to the women inmates of a Framingham, Mass., prison. Marya likes the idea of having a place to go everyday, and tells the Boston Globe that she finds great reward in teaching computer skills.

“They surprised me by how friendly they were, how motivated, cooperative. Some of them would get into telling me about their stories. That made my day sometimes.’’

Wolfman is among many in Western Massachusetts reaping the benefits of volunteer work. “I’m seeing it all over Metrowest,’’ said Susan Nicholl chairwoman of the Metrowest Nonprofit Network. “There are more people out there who want to apply their skills in nonprofits. They feel like they have something really of value to offer.’’

And giving one's time away provides more than structure. Many find these positions allow them to develop new skills or polish old ones. Some, like Julia Reich, are even discovering new doors opening for them.

After losing her job as a textbook editor, Reich decided she wanted to work for a nonprofit, but opportunities felt limited due to her lack of experience — a situation now being remedied through her volunteer work as a grant writer for the Needham Community Council.

“It’s mutually beneficial,’’ Reich said. “I didn’t start out volunteering thinking, ‘Oh, this could really advance my career.’ As I was working there, I discovered that I could really learn skills that I would need in the type of job I’m looking for.’’

Just like the great little saying suggests: Polish over here it shines over there.