Volunteers help make the world a better place.
While helping the community and making an immeasurable difference in people’s lives, volunteers must also be mindful of their own personal well-being. Luckily, volunteerism is known to make a positive impact on volunteers’ physical and mental health!
Donating your time and talent doesn’t go unnoticed—nor does it damper your health. Keep reading to find out the 5 health benefits of volunteering in your community!
5 Health Benefits of Volunteering
- Maintains physical activity
Volunteering tends to involve a good deal of physical exertion. From gardening, to chaperoning a trip, to helping with Special Olympics, volunteers are often on their feet and on the move. Maintaining an active lifestyle has a multitude of health benefits, including decreased risk of disease, strong bones and muscles, cardio endurance, and more. - Reduces stress
When donating time to an important cause, volunteers often feel positive, relaxed emotions. This is because volunteering has proven to release dopamine in your brain, which can have a stress-reducing effect. Feeling appreciated can also greatly alleviate feelings of anxiety, loneliness, and sadness. - Increases social interaction
Especially with the rise of remote jobs and virtual communication, face-to-face interaction is becoming less common. Dedicating time as a volunteer allows you to nurture relationships through real connection. Because volunteers tend to have similar interests and goals, volunteering can help you build a support system and social network. A sense of community and connectedness is paramount to a healthy mindset. - Lowers blood pressure
Believe it or not, research shows that volunteering adults are 40 percent less likely to develop high blood pressure—ultimately reducing the risk of stroke and heart failure. These findings are most likely due to the increased physical activity and decreased stress that result from regular volunteering. - Boosts mental health
Volunteering gives people a sense of purpose. Particularly in older or retired individuals, volunteering builds self esteem and increases life satisfaction. It also keeps their mind active, which contributes positively to cognitive health. The National Institute on Aging reported that engaging in activities that are meaningful and productive may lower the risk of dementia and other health problems. Volunteers make a positive difference in the world, and in turn, reap the satisfaction of feeling appreciated and valued!
Join Covey as a Volunteer
Volunteering can contribute to a healthier, happier, and longer life. As a non-profit organization devoted to helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Covey is an incredible organization to volunteer with. We are proud to offer many vibrant volunteer opportunities that help enrich the lives of our participants, their families, and our community.
Whether you’re a student, a retiree, or you just have extra time on your hands, Covey is always appreciative of volunteers in the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin. Our volunteers assist with daily caregiving services, administrative work, maintenance, events, community engagement outings, Covey Connects classes, and more.
Do you want to greatly impact the lives of individuals with disabilities? Check out our Volunteer Opportunities!
