When it comes to volunteering it’s a powerful way to make a positive impact not only on your community but on yourself. Whether it’s helping at a food bank, cleaning up a park, or tutoring kids, giving time to help the community makes a difference. But it’s not all about helping others; it can also bring benefits to your own life.
In 2019, over 77 million people volunteered in the U.S., contributing nearly 6.9 billion hours of service, worth $167 billion (National Conference on Citizenship, 2020). Volunteers support important causes like charity work, education, and environmental protection. They also help build stronger communities. For example, mentoring youth can improve their grades, behavior, and confidence – 78% of mentored young people report better outcomes (National Mentoring Partnership, 2020).
Volunteering has big benefits for your health and happiness. Studies show that volunteers are less likely to feel depressed, and they experience higher life satisfaction (Psychological Science, 2013). Volunteering can also help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even help you live longer (Harvard Medical School, 2020). Plus, it’s a great way to develop new skills like teamwork and leadership.
Most volunteers often get more involved in their communities. A 2018 study showed that nearly 60% of volunteers also donated money or got involved in other activities like voting (Independent Sector, 2018). Volunteering helps people from different backgrounds come together and work toward common goals, strengthening social bonds.
Volunteering not only improves your community but can also boost your well-being and personal growth. Whether you’re looking to make a difference, gain experience, or meet new people, volunteering is a great way to get involved and make the world a better place.
Sources:
- National Conference on Citizenship. (2020). Volunteering in America: A Snapshot of 2019.
- National Mentoring Partnership. (2020). The Mentoring Effect: Young People’s Perspectives on the Impact of Mentoring.
- Harvard Medical School. (2020). The Health Benefits of Volunteering.
- Independent Sector. (2018). Giving and Volunteering in the United States.
