The Massive Health Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering is an incredibly rewarding experience, and while it’s often done with selfless intentions. There are several benefits associated with volunteering that can directly benefit the individual volunteering. Furthermore, this topic has been well-researched, and many studies are demonstrating the massive benefits of volunteering. Here are a few of the most common benefits of volunteering:
You will meet new people and connect with those with similar interests leading to new friendships.
You will feel a sense of accomplishment. You will know your card will have a positive impact on someone who needs it. That can be incredibly gratifying.
Volunteering has been linked to mental health benefits, including reduced stress levels and feelings of happiness.
The Science …
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and make a difference in the world. In addition to the difference you can make in the lives of hospitalized children, cancer patients, or even our deployed service members, you will also benefit. There is a strong relationship between volunteering and health: those who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not.
Research demonstrates that volunteering leads to better health and that older volunteers are the most likely to receive physical and mental health benefits from their volunteer activities.
The Health Benefits of Volunteering, Office of Research and Policy Development, Corporation for National and Community Service
Herzog et al. found that volunteering promotes a personal sense of purpose and accomplishments and enhances a person’s social networks to buffer stress and reduce disease risk. (Herzog et al.,1998;Greenfield and Marks,2004;Harlow andCantor,1996) In addition, Musick and Wilson’s study showed that when older adults volunteered, they experienced lower rates of depression in 1994. (Musick and Wilson,2003)
Besides, making cards is fun! Work with a group and enjoy the camaraderie while you enjoy knowing you are making a difference in people’s lives. For example, one child in the hospital carried his Bright Spot–a monster card–with him to every appointment. His card told him he was a hero. Therefore, he felt he was a hero, just like his Bright Spot!
Be that person!
Checkout our volunteer page and join us in helping others!