Around this time of year, our thoughts turn to becoming better.
Many of us make resolutions, or at the very least, make a mental list of things
to improve over the coming months. This year, in addition to that diet and
exercise plan, resolve to reach out to your community. Making volunteer work a
regular part of your new year is easier than you might think.
Why volunteer?
- It's easy to see how volunteering blesses our communities.
Volunteers provide workers and resources that non-profit organizations
need to survive. Without regular volunteers, many entities that support
those most vulnerable wouldn't exist. It takes a dedicated workforce to
meet the needs of our communities, and you have valuable skills to offer.
- However, volunteers also reap rewards. Volunteerism is a
great way to enhance your resume and make new contacts, which are vital
components of landing a rewarding career in today's competitive job
market. Volunteering also comes with a host of mental health benefits.
Regular volunteers report lower levels of loneliness and feel a great
connection to their community. Volunteers also have lower rates of
depression than the general population.
- A growing body of research also shows that volunteering is
good for your physical health. The Journal of Psychology and Aging found
that volunteers over age 50 have lower blood pressure than their same age
peers. It turns out that volunteering is good for the heart in more than
the symbolic sense.
Overcoming
obstacles
- The biggest barrier to regular volunteerism is finding the
time. Between work and family obligations, many of us simply can't squeeze
in one more thing. That doesn't mean you can't find ways to give back.
Your employer may sponsor community outreach that you can do during work
hours. If your church has outreach auxiliary organizations, that's another
great place to put in a little time each week. If you have kids, you're
also probably spending time in their school regularly, and you can use that
time already set aside to volunteer.
- If you can't commit regular time to giving back, consider
using your other resources to help your community. Pick up a few extra
items grocery shopping each week to drop off at a food bank, or donate
clothes you find on clearance to a homeless shelter. Although it may not
feel as personal as giving time, organizations also desperately need your
money to stay afloat. Writing a check each month, even if your
contribution is small, is vital to maintaining services in your area.
The
Payoff
- Just because volunteer work is unpaid doesn't mean it comes
without a payout. Aside from the physical and mental benefits to the
giver, volunteerism creates a legacy for our families. As your kids see
you engaged in community service, it will inspire them to find ways to
give back.
- Get the entire family involved in serving this year. Dog
walking at an animal shelter, stocking shelves at a food bank or serving
at a soup kitchen are excellent ways to spend time together and teach your
children empathy at the same time. If you're looking for less formal
opportunities, shovel snow or mow the grass for your neighbors, bring
treats to a fire station, or babysit for a friend as a family. Ignore any
protesting from your kids; they need the experience and the work ethic
that comes from volunteering.
- Making volunteerism a regular part of your new year is
easier than you think. The hardest part is finding an opportunity and
showing up the first time. After that, it will become part of your routine
the same way you now spend your time working, running errands and eating.
Commit this January to finding an organization that can use your talents.
Someone out there needs what only you can give. It's up to you to find
them.
Take
the Jump in 2018
Make volunteering
a reality this year. Many organizations have made it easier than ever to find
opportunities and sign up online.
There has
never been a better time to commit to volunteering in the New Year.
Thanks to FamilyShare
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