Volunteering Offers Surprising Health Benefits
We often think of volunteering as a selfless act that benefits others, but new research shows that it can also have significant health benefits for the volunteer. Studies have found that volunteering can improve mental health, reduce loneliness, and even boost physical health.
The Psychology of Volunteering
Research by psychologists has revealed a strong connection between volunteering and positive emotions. Giving back to others can boost self-esteem, reduce stress, and provide a sense of purpose. Additionally, volunteering often involves social interaction, which can help combat loneliness and isolation, especially for older adults.
In addition, working with others who share your values can be helpful to individuals who have recently moved into a community. By having a shared goal and commitment, you naturally meet and get to know others across the community.
Pre-retirees, those still employed full time, can also benefit. Some employers reward volunteerism by providing paid leave time, or making a donation to an organization that you support with your volunteer hours. Rather than being wholly philanthropic, studies show that these programs increase employee satisfaction and create corporate pride. Both can lead to longevity and make recruiting new hires easier. In addition, work from home employees, or entrepreneurs can benefit from the social interaction of having in-person volunteer times.
Finally, for teens and young adults, volunteering is both an opportunity to explore independence and leadership roles. Routine volunteerism encourages the development of empathy and gives opportunities to explore their ability to positively affect change.
The Physical Benefits
Some types of volunteering, such as working at a food bank or participating in community clean-ups, involve physical activity. But even non-physical volunteering can have positive health effects. Studies have shown that volunteering can reduce blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, and even lower the risk of dementia.
Particularly with retirees, a routine of physical interaction can help improve health.Think of that happy but tired feeling you get when you finish a job. As long as you don’t overdo it, the benefit of regular exercise is well known. Having a cause you believe in, can be a strong motivator to get that regular exercise.
For anyone who goes from a physically demanding job to full retirement, that can be a shock to the system. Having a plan to be regularly active can allow for a more gentle and sustainable retirement.
Benefits to the Organization
You may immediately understand the benefit of having dedicated individuals who participate with your organization at no salary or benefit cost. What is less appreciated is the benefit to fundraising. Volunteers are already showing their commitment and appreciation to their work. No cold call or mass mailed appeal card needed. Of course it is not just a matter of giving them a donation form, but you should consider them as identified prospects to be acquired and retained.
On the flip side, your donors may also be interested in being volunteers. Again, they believe in your cause and may just need to be invited to be a volunteer. Be mindful to ask for both their time and their talent.
Finally for the organization, dedicated volunteers may be your best advocate in the community and certainly should be considered for diverse roles from employee to board members.
Benefits to the Community
This may be obvious, but a dedicated population who consistently shows up to make an impact through volunteering builds a resilient community. From members of the community seeing and hearing about projects being done to giving people a sense that adversity can be overcome leads to better outcomes for everyone. Having multiple organizations utilizing volunteers can also lead to cross organization collaboration. Sharing volunteers, encouraging employees and youth to participate leads directly to a community that feels pride and connectedness.
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in volunteering, there are many opportunities available. You can start by reaching out to local non-profit organizations or using online platforms like VolunteerMatch to find a cause that aligns with your interests. It’s important to choose a volunteer activity that you enjoy and that fits into your schedule.
Remember: The benefits of volunteering go beyond the feel-good factor. By giving back to your community, you can improve your own mental and physical health while making a positive impact on the world around you. By fully engaging with volunteers, companies and organizations increase their reach and impact. A community which supports volunteerism builds resilience.