Toby Malichi volunteers to serve on the US Chamber of Commerce Small Business Advisory Council because he wants to help other American small business owners export. He has already been successful doing business around the world and he is happy to share his knowledge.

Topic for Discussion: How do you find the charities and causes that best suit you?

Answer: For those of us who have been in business a long time this is easy and almost obvious. We get involved in causes that touch our lives personally and we do it expecting nothing in return. If you are looking for a place to donate your energy, approach the different causes as if you are dating around and looking to marry.

Only commit after you have determined that the mission, the people and the processes of the organization are in harmony with your values and your passion. There is nothing worse than donating time and money to something that turns sour.

You think about it: What are you doing now as a volunteer? Is is satisfying? Is it time to seriously look for a charity that can benefit from your life experience?