• There are many long-term volunteering projects nationwide.help image by Ewe Degiampietro from Fotolia.com
  
  In 2009, more than 63 million people nationwide committed their time to volunteer in America, according to the Corporation for National and Community Service. There are many opportunities to give back in every community in the United States. While many of these projects may be short-term, many organizations and charities have a need for individuals who are willing to make long-term commitments.
  
  

Adopt a Classroom

• Schools and classrooms nationwide have many needs, such as tutors and mentors. Teachers and administrators may also need a committed volunteer that can provide assistance in various ways. Meet with a principal of a school in your community and determine if a particular classroom has a need for a volunteer to commit a specific amount of hours for the duration of the school year or beyond. If a classroom does have this need, then dedicate yourself to helping meet some of the needs, such as providing extra school supplies, assisting children with academics, facilitating lessons or even helping to host a Christmas or Valentine's Day party.
  
  

International Volunteerism

• Volunteering doesn't have to be limited to your own backyard. There are many needs all over the world. If you have the time, resources and desire, then volunteering overseas for a long period of time may be ideal. Making a long-term commitment in another country may also be a good experience for avid travelers or for people who have an interest in traveling the world. There are many companies, such as VolunteerAbroad.com, that provide assistance to potential international volunteers, according to Idealist, an on line volunteer resource guide. According to Idealist, it's important for volunteers to expore all options and conduct thorough research before commiting to international volunteerism.
  
  

Create a Club

• To help the community in a variety of ways, start a club that has a philanthropic mission. If you have a group of friends, colleagues or neighbors that are all interested in giving back to the community, then organize meetings and together determine needs to address and ways to tackle these needs. For example, your group of peers may choose to sponsor an event for your local animal shelter or you all may choose to host a back-to-school supply drive. As a group, establish long-term goals and commitments so that these projects don't fizzle. Ensure that the members of the club are committed and will follow through with their volunteer obligations.