If you're looking for a way to really make an impression on your local community and get some great marketing bang out of the experience consider volunteering your time and/or services to a local non profit, charity, or other good cause.

First, you'll want choose a cause that means something to you and makes a clear statement about your values and what you believe is important - it could be a children's center, a women's shelter, an animal rights group, or an upcoming event geared toward any good cause. Look at what's most needed in your local community and find a place to donate! Perhaps you can give your time helping out with general tasks or you can organize a clothing drive or other event of your own. Or, you could simply offer a set number of free virtual assistance services per month for the year!

Once you've decided where you'd like to give as well as found out how you can best help, get in touch with the director of the place you wish to participate at - let them know why you're interested in helping, and get in there to start making a difference.

Then, note on your professional website, blog, and any networking sites you are active in that your virtual assistance company is proud to partner with them, pro bono - explain a bit about how your company is helping, and why it's important to you to do so.

You'll get your name and face out there in your community and all the wonderful karma that comes with giving back!

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