In honor of National Volunteer Week, I want to recognize the many ways that dedicated volunteers contribute their time and give community service. The power of volunteers with all the challenges faced in society is a force that helps to transform the world making a difference in communities. It is a voluntary act of an individual or a group freely giving time, duty, and labor.
Take a look at how lives are touched, and positive changes come about with the help and support from volunteers:
- Homeless shelters, food banks, soup kitchens cooking and serving meals; being a good neighbor; showing love and kindness.
- Churches and other non-profit organizations providing support staff to assist with programs, activities, and events.
- Medical facilities, providing hospital assistance to healthcare workers.
- Assisting schools with tutoring; reading programs and youth sports.
- Rescue mission for addiction; building homes; voter registration; blood drives, helping at animal shelters; giving to charities and local foundations to help improve the lives of others.
- Support the arts, music, volunteer coaching and mentoring; being a positive advocate and role model in leadership.
There is something so gratifying about volunteering and more people are enjoying the many benefits that it brings. Focusing on someone or something other than yourself can interrupt tension and produce better mood patterns.
The act of volunteering is important and beneficial to lifelong learning. It is a proven pathway to employment possibilities and establishing some measure of value from your service. It promotes longevity and leads to graceful aging.
When you learn by volunteering it supports your development both personally and professionally. It helps develop empathy, improves self-esteem, increases socialization because it is a great way to meet people. In many cases the act of volunteering will help develop business and other transferable skills.
Get involved and search for volunteer opportunities that might be a good match for you. Find information in areas where you can share your gifts and talents, helping to inspire others by making a difference.
Cheers to all the volunteers! Let them know how much they are appreciated.
Life Lessons
- Ongoing development is important to expand knowledge and improve existing skills.
- Master what you love doing. Hone your abilities to enhance your professional life.
- Knowledge is meant to be used for growth and development.