(By Emily Morse, Founder of Sex With Emily)

I hear you: you live in the worst town to date. Everyone is taken, too old, too young, works too much, or not at all, too gay, too straight and you’re well, perfect, at least perfectly available, believe me, I’ve heard it all.

But don’t fret because you’re far from alone. I hear this from singletons coast to coast and each city has its unique set of complaints of why their city fails them in matters of the heart. Los Angeleans complain that everyone is looking for the “BBD” (bigger better deal), San Franciscans allege that no one goes on real dates anymore and New Yorkers think the entire city appears to be on a joint speed date rotating around the same cast of characters in an endless orbit of musical dating chairs.

Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s talk about how you can meet someone. Because you will, but it does mean you have to step outside your comfort zone and try something different. We all get set in our ways, do the same weekly activities, whether it’s going to the office, the gym, and having dinner with your usual suspects. So it’s no wonder you’re not meeting anyone new. When you challenge yourself to participate in new experiences you’re opening yourself up to meeting a fresh group of people.

It’s easier than you think, and you’ll be giving back at the same time. Find an activity and cause you believe in and participate in a local charity event. This is surefire way to find someone who fills your bottom line issues and maybe even your heart.

You’ll be surrounded by new people, attending steering committee events and grabbing drinks afterwards with your new philanthropic minded friends. Plus, you’re more likely to meet someone who shares your values. And volunteering is sexy, don’t you think?

Check out these national organizations with a co-ed volunteer base:

1. Habitat For Humanity – Work up a sexy sweat while while building homes for those in need.

2. SPCA – Animal lovers unite at the SPCA where you’ll swoon over your new furry friends and them over each other.

3. Nature Conservancy – Hug some trees and then maybe each other after working in nature saving the world one tree at a time.

4. American Red Cross – Responding to national disasters will get your blood pumping together.

5. Special Olympics – Nothing like the inspiriation of truly helping children accomplish their goals to inspire your own new relationships.

Have you met your match through a volunteer organization? Let me know. I want to hear about it! Tell me in the comment box below.

Photos via Flickr

Related posts:

1. The Center of Your Dating Universe
2. Fashion Emergency: The Dating Game
3. Dating With A Purpose: Expansion, Part I
4. Dating with a Purpose: Expansion, Part II
5. Sex and the Volunteer: Emily Morse of “Sex With Emily”