How do I know what volunteer project is right for me?

Summary:

Some self-screening is the first step, so that you know what you're looking for.

Susan Ellis said on ADVICE FOR VOLUNTEERS on ImpactOnline in 1996:
(ImpactOnline is now http://www.volunteermatch.org; earlier content is for the most part no longer available. --Ed.)
Finding the Right Opportunity for You

There are many volunteer assignments available and you should take your
time to find the one that best matches you. Start by thinking about the
following questions:

• What causes or issues matter the most to me?
  
• Do I want to volunteer for something that uses the skills I apply in my
  paying work ?
  
• Keep in mind that some volunteer positions will require prior knowledge of
  a task (such as working with a computer), but that there are a lot of
  volunteer assignments needing great people skills, too--the ability to be a
  good listener, non-judgemental, cheery, supportive.
  
• What would I most like to learn by volunteering?
  
• What don't I want to do as a volunteer?
  
• Do I want an ongoing, regularly-scheduled assignment, or a short-term
  assignment, or a one-time assignment?
  
• Do I want to work alone or with a group? Or with a friend or my family?
  
• With what kind of people do I want to work--both in terms of who is
  receiving services and who my co-workers might be?
  
• What should I expect when I contact an agency to apply to become a volunteer?