Are you on the fence about volunteering and need a little nudge one way or the other?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Volunteering benefits others, of course, but you yourself get to reap plenty of benefits of volunteering in your community, abroad, or virtually. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Volunteering cons are few\u2014it takes time, it takes effort, you may break a sweat, etc. However, volunteering pros are legion, laudable, and lifelong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, what are the benefits of volunteering?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep reading below to find out!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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\n <\/a>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\nHere are five great advantages and benefits of volunteering:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Volunteering Makes a Difference<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
This is the main reason people volunteer, so let\u2019s get this out of the way from the start. Volunteering is a great way to support causes and organizations that matter to you. While donating money is always welcome, most students and young professionals struggle to make ends meet; volunteering lets you help these change-making organizations without costing you a dime. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
And, one of the best parts about volunteering abroad<\/a> or locally is that you decide who, what, when, where, why, and how. Perhaps you admire the work your local food kitchen does and want to help them help others. Or, maybe you have a soft spot for dogs and prefer to lend a helping hand at the county animal shelter. You can volunteer completely online, or offer your time supporting a specific SDG<\/a> you\u2019re passionate about. Volunteer working evening shifts<\/a>, as a side job on the weekends<\/a>, or once a year on Earth Day<\/a>. Whatever the case may be, there\u2019s sure to be an organization requiring your assistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Related Read<\/strong>: How to Choose a Charity to Support in 4 Simple Steps<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Volunteering Improves Health & Well-Being<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
One of the most well-documented benefits of volunteering is its effects on your well-being. In one study<\/a> published by the American Sociological Association, researchers took a look at the relationship between volunteering and six elements of a person\u2019s well-being: physical health, good self-esteem<\/a>, happiness, sense of control over life, life satisfaction, and depression. They found volunteering had a significant impact on each aspect of well-being, particularly if the person was less socially integrated to begin with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since then (and also prior to that study), dozens of other studies have backed up those claims, such as this one<\/a>, this one<\/a>, this one<\/a>, and this one<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Related Read<\/strong>: 35+ Inspiring Quotes About Volunteering & the Joy of Serving Others<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
3. Volunteering Betters Your Understanding of the World<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Depending on the kind of volunteer work you seek, you may get a unique opportunity to connect with, learn about, and immerse yourself in a community, culture, or group of people you otherwise may have never encountered or interacted with. Not only will this expand your intelligence and understanding of the world around you, but you\u2019ll get a better sense of how society works\u2014and what you can do to better it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Of course, not all forms of volunteering will help you gain a better understanding of other communities, cultures, or walks of life. But just about every type of voluntary work will connect you to new people and experiences, which alone is enough to make the personal benefits of volunteering greater than any time and effort you\u2019ll lose because of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Related Read<\/strong>: 25 Small Acts You Can Do to Have a Great Impact<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Volunteering Advances Your Career<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What lets you build great job skills, develop real-life working expertise, and network with amazing professionals? Why volunteering, of course! While volunteering should be about helping others, it\u2019s hard to overstate the impact even a minor stint has on your career. In fact, a \u201cvolunteer experience\u201d section is one of the best things to include on a resume<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
And, if you\u2019re just starting out and looking for a first job<\/a> but wondering how to get a job with no experience<\/a>, volunteering is<\/em> experience. On top of that, it shows the prospective company, recruiter, or hiring manager that you are a hard worker, work well on a team and with others, and have an all-around great attitude and character. If you\u2019re looking for the best way to improve your job prospects, volunteering is really hard to beat!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Related Read<\/strong>: How to Turn Your Passion Into a Career in 5 Easy Steps<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. Volunteering Can Create Lifelong Friendships<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Finally, friendships! One of the most overlooked benefits of doing community service or volunteering is you have the chance to make friends with people who share your passions, interests, and determination to effect positive change. When you\u2019re working side-by-side with peers towards the same goal, it\u2019s pretty difficult not<\/em> to create some strong attachments. And, while the purpose of volunteering isn\u2019t to meet your BFF, who knows? You may do just that!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Related Read<\/strong>: How to Make Friends in College: 10+ Easy Ways to Meet People at Uni<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n