We often think of volunteering as a selfless act that benefits others, but research shows 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. Volunteering often involves social interaction, which helps combat loneliness and isolation, especially for older adults.
Working with others who share your values can also 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 benefit too. Some employers reward volunteerism by providing paid leave time, or making a donation to an organization you support with your volunteer hours. Rather than being wholly philanthropic, studies show these programs increase employee satisfaction and create corporate pride. Both can lead to longevity and make recruiting new hires easier. Work-from-home employees and entrepreneurs can also benefit from the social interaction of in-person volunteer time.
For teens and young adults, volunteering is an opportunity to explore independence and leadership roles. Routine volunteerism encourages the development of empathy and gives them 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 — and having a cause you believe in can be a strong motivator to get it.
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 allows 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 for the work. No cold call or mass-mailed appeal card needed. Of course it is not just a matter of handing them a donation form, but you should consider them identified prospects to be acquired and retained.
On the flip side, your donors may also be interested in being volunteers. They believe in your cause and may just need to be invited. Be mindful to ask for both their time and their talent.
Finally, dedicated volunteers may be your best advocates in the community, and certainly should be considered for diverse roles from employee to board member.
Benefits to the Community
This may be obvious, but a dedicated population that consistently shows up to make an impact through volunteering builds a resilient community. From community members seeing and hearing about projects being done, to giving people a sense that adversity can be overcome, the outcome is better for everyone.
Having multiple organizations utilizing volunteers can also lead to cross-organization collaboration. Sharing volunteers and 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 nonprofit organizations or using online platforms 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.
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, organizations increase their reach and impact. And a community which supports volunteerism builds resilience.