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
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:
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.