April is National Volunteer Month!

April is National Volunteer Month and it’s as good a time as any to make giving back part of your identity. Bonus—getting engaged in volunteerism can have a positive impact on everybody involved.

In addition to boosting social well-being, volunteering can make you feel physically stronger, increase mental sharpness, aid in reducing stress and even help you live longer. Despite these proven positive effects, only 1 in 4 Americans regularly volunteer, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you’re curious about the specific benefits of volunteering or how to get started, read on.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING

• Increased mental and physical activity—Participating in volunteer activities gives you the opportunity to move and think in different ways than you’re used to doing at home or at work. And there’s a good chance that you’ll be on the move while volunteering, which increases your overall physical activity level, too.
• Reduced stress levels—Giving back to those in need is said to enhance one’s sense of belonging, meaning and appreciation, which are all elements that can help reduce your stress levels.
• Increased social well-being—By going out and volunteering in your community, you’re broadening your social circle, forging new relationships and giving back to those who are in need. All of these activities can increase your social well-being, a component that plays a large role in your overall health.

HOW TO GET STARTED

Many organizations can benefit from your volunteer time. A good place to start looking is within your community. Pick one that complements your talents, interests, schedule and physical abilities. When you’re thinking about what you’d like to do as a volunteer, it may be helpful to think about what’s motivating you. Some volunteers are motivated by the following:

• Helping others
• Learning about the community
• Meeting new and interesting people
• Working in a team environment
• Feeling like they made a difference
• Gaining valuable life experiences
• Acquiring new skills

Once you’ve determined what’s motivating you to volunteer, you’ll be able to narrow down your search for local volunteer programs. For example, if you enjoy helping others, it may be beneficial to try to volunteer at a hospital or clinic. If you want to learn more about your community, volunteer on a community council or committee.

MAKE AN IMPACT

Embracing volunteerism contributes to the greater good. Whether through hands-on assistance or virtual micro-volunteering, there are numerous ways to make a difference during National Volunteer Month and beyond! We can't wait to see what you accomplish.