It's My Life . Emotions . Volunteering . Why Should I Do It? Printable

Volunteering: Why Should I Do It?

Volunteering takes up our time, energy, and sometimes, money. It can be hard work. It can find us doing and seeing new things, which can be challenging and even a little scary. So why does anyone even go there?

Well, here’s a reason:

Volunteering is good for others
The world is not a perfect place, and many people, animals, places, and communities need help. Governments and professionals
try to meet everyone’s needs, but it’s impossible
for them to do it all.

This is why people become volunteers: because they can make a difference where someone or something needs help. If people never help each other and only care about themselves, the world becomes a crueler, sadder place. But when we volunteer our time, money, or talents, we help make our planet a better, happier home where people work together to make life easier for all.

Volunteers and volunteer groups can:

Bring food to hungry people
Find homes or clothes for those who need them
Make neighborhoods safer and more beautiful
Protect wildlife and natural areas
Help care for pets and other animals
Bring comfort and happiness to lonely people
Care for people who are sick, or help find cures for diseases
Help people learn to read or do better in school

Need another reason? How about this one:

Volunteering is good for YOU
Are you thinking, “What’s in it for me?” The answer is, plenty! Here are some of the things you might get in return for your giving:

Making new friends
Gaining important skills and experience that will help you later in life
Making connections that can lead to a job or career
Seeing more of your community and world
Building confidence and self-esteem
Exploring what you want to do with your life
Feeling needed and important
Feeling satisfaction at getting things done and helping others
Meeting people who could be role models
Using your mind, body, and creativity
Getting active and healthier
Relieving stress
Fighting boredom
Spending time doing what you really care about
Gaining an edge on getting into college
Feeling like you’re part of a community
Having fun!

Hey...it looks like being a volunteer gives as much good stuff to you as it does to the people, places, or animals you’re trying to help! That’s the secret of volunteering. People who become volunteers usually lead richer, happier, and more satisfying lives than those who don’t volunteer.