After volunteering, almost all will say they feel great. Whether the volunteers feel a sense of accomplishment or their mood is boosted, giving back to the community has excellent benefits. Volunteers get involved for many different reasons. Some want to support a cause they are passionate about, and others may want to help those who are less fortunate. However, most volunteers give back because it makes a positive difference not because of the personal benefits. Volunteering can make you feel good, but also can actually improve your life and health.
Research has found that actively giving back provides individual health benefits in addition to societal ones. Volunteering is a way to give back and give your time to help others, without any expectation of compensation. However, studies have found that volunteering leads to better health including higher functional ability, lower mortality rates, and lower rates of depression than those who do not volunteer. Furthermore, volunteering increases social interaction which helps improves physical and mental health. The most significant benefits of consistent social interaction include lower risk for anxiety and depression.
Studies has also found that older volunteers receive more health benefits from giving back. Studies attribute this to either the fact that volunteers older in age have a higher rate of illness or because volunteering provides them with a sense of meaning and purpose at a time when their social roles are changing.
A huge benefit of getting involved in your community is fulfilling your need for a purpose. Giving back and helping better those in your community provides a sense of pride, accomplishment, fulfillment. Volunteering also has societal advantages because it strengthens the community and betters the lives of others.
Getting involved in your community does not just include volunteering. Becoming active in community events, meeting your neighbors, helping with local schools, and smiling are easy and excellent ways to better your community. When you get involved, you can see real changes as a result of your efforts. Volunteering is a fantastic way to support a cause you are passionate about or helping those who are less fortunate. Making a difference in the community is an incredible benefit of giving back, but now you can feel even better knowing you are helping the lives of others while also benefiting your health!
David Jeansonne is a successful entrepreneur based in New Orleans, Louisiana. His goal is to help the less fortunate and improve his hometown community. Read more of his philanthropy blog or check out his Twitter!
Originally published at davidjeansonne.net.
