Can you believe it? April is coming to a close, and what an incredible month of volunteer opportunities it's been!
As tempting as it might be to use this month as an opportunity to boast about the incredible 598 volunteer hours our teammates have selflessly dedicated to 31 various organizations, let's take a step back and focus on the bigger picture: the power of volunteering.
So, let's talk about you. Yes, YOU reading this right now.
You have the power to change the world – seriously, you do! It doesn't matter if you're a CEO or a stay-at-home parent, a student, or a retiree – every single one of us has something unique to offer.
Of course, the primary goal of volunteering is to make a positive impact in our communities, but it's also about the transformative effects it can have on the people who participate. Research has shown time and time again that giving back isn't just good for the soul – it's good for our health, too!
Volunteering can lower stress levels, boost self-esteem, and even increase our lifespan.
- Lowering Stress Levels: The social connections formed through volunteering and the sense of purpose and fulfillment it provides can contribute to lower stress levels.
- Boosting Self-Esteem: Research published in the Journal of Happiness Studies suggests that volunteering is associated with higher self-esteem and greater life satisfaction. Engaging in meaningful activities and positively impacting the community can enhance one's sense of self-worth and confidence.
- Increasing Lifespan: Research published in BMC Public Health suggests that volunteering is linked to lower mortality rates, particularly among older adults. Social support, a sense of purpose, and physical activity often associated with volunteering contribute to longevity.
If you've ever needed an excuse to get out there and make a difference, consider this your sign – your body and mind will thank you for it!
We're not here to just celebrate National Volunteer Month and call it a day. Oh no, my friends, we're in this for the long haul! Whether it's helping your local food pantry, organizing a community cleanup, or simply lending a listening ear to someone in need, there are endless opportunities for us to make a difference – all year round.
Stay tuned for next week's blog, where we'll share exciting volunteer opportunities in your communities and how to fit that time within your busy schedule. In the meantime, go ahead and take that first step. Get involved at a local charity, sign up for a mentoring program or simply spread kindness wherever you go. Trust us, you won't regret it!
