I have a dirty little secret - I had a really tough time finding a job.

It isn't because I wasn't qualified (sometimes even over-qualified) for the jobs I was applying for. It wasn't because I am not personable and polite. Heck, I even clean up well.

I just wasn't being hired. And it was brutal.

So, in order to pump up my resume during those lean times, I would take on as many volunteer opportunities as possible.