Volunteering allows people to donate their time and talents to people and organizations throughout their communities. Many not-for-profit and charitable organizations lack sufficient funding to pay their staff members a salary.
These organizations could not meet the needs of those they serve without the generosity and support of their volunteers. The week of April 19-25 is National Volunteer Week, and to celebrate it, there are five benefits of volunteering, though this article only scratches the surface.
It builds connections.
If you’re new to an area, volunteering helps you connect with people with similar interests. Together, you and your new friends can participate in fun and worthwhile activities for important community-wide causes.
It boosts your confidence.
Volunteering boosts confidence, raises self-esteem, and helps you develop social skills. If you feel comfortable around others and like participating in community-wide events, you may find donating your time and skills an essential part of your life.
However, being around large numbers of people may make you uncomfortable if you’re an introvert. Participating in activities with the same group of people consistently allows you to practice and develop your social skills. Volunteering also allows you to meet new people and grow your social network.
It teaches the importance of giving back.
Family volunteering teaches children the importance of giving back while adding value to their lives and the lives of those they serve. It also connects parents with organizations providing child-friendly community activities.
It helps meet the needs of people in your community.
If you are a visually impaired volunteer, you can benefit from volunteering your time and skills to help meet the needs of people and organizations in your community. Even during this time of social distancing, you can still help your community from the comfort of your home.
With today’s technological enhancements, many visually impaired people volunteer over the phone or online. For example, some organizations may need content for emails, blogs, websites, and other materials. Other organizations need people to make or answer phone calls from a remote location.
Make sure your organization has a staff person available to answer any questions. Even though you’re volunteering at home, you can still connect through social media and other online platforms.
It helps your career.
Volunteering provides opportunities to advance your career or start a new one. You can learn new skills and enhance those you already have, connect with organizations that offer internships, and meet potential employers.
In honor of National Volunteer Week (April 19-25, 2020), Outlook Enrichment would like to thank all our volunteers for their service to our community. Although no events are happening now, preparations are underway for future events. Sign up for one of our volunteer opportunities here.
