Our story It began in a foreign country in Western Europe. It was the summer of 2018. We made a move and later, another decision that would change our lives f o r e v e r. The city was Berlin. The year was 2017, in the … Read more...
Why start volunteering this year?
We have been volunteering for 10 years. We can’t imagine our lives without it. Why you should make volunteering a part of your life? Read below.
We are volunteering weekly to make 100+ sandwiches for those in need. Also, we work every day to save food, trade it, and pick it up from kind people, so we can support our local little food pantries. Some may think that this is too much work, but for us this is joy. We encourage you to make volunteering one of your goals this new year. Why? Because if you volunteer in a field you feel strongly about, you feel like you can conquer the world! It makes you feel sublime.
Last year as most likely this year, will be not easy for many people. Now is the right time to reach out a helping hand. Think about your neighbourhood. What needs to be done? Or feel free to start your own volunteering opportunity. Like making soup and handing it out at an intersection or near a church. Possibilities are endless. Read more below about volunteering and its positive sides.
Volunteering is good for your health
I guess this is no news that volunteering is good for your health. As those who have ever helped out somebody knows how good it makes us feel. Do not believe me, read more here.
Volunteering isn’t something to put off until you have extra time and money. There are numerous reasons why the returns far outweigh the time you invest, especially during difficult times. Below are some reasons why to start volunteering now.
Not only for your physical health but also for mental health. The benefits are clear. It can relieve you from the effects of stress, depression, and anxiety. When you have a group of volunteers, even if you do not meet physically, it helps you develop a support system. So you do not feel so lonely and depressed. This is the most effective when volunteering with animals.
Volunteers live longer
Volunteers are happier and healthier than non-volunteers. Also, the older the volunteer, the more beneficial for one’s health. Even more than exercising and eating well. Who would have known that? Perhaps this explains why volunteering is so much connected to older people. They live longer as well. But you do not start volunteering at an older age, as they were volunteers already when younger. So now is the right time to start.
Usually volunteering is done in a group and it connects you with others. It is especially helpful for those who feel isolated or want to widen their social circle. Volunteering is a great way to make friends. Though at this moment social volunteering is not prohibited or accepted, there are still options for you to volunteer. Don’t know where to start? Check this webpage for tips.
Volunteering makes you feel good and builds your self-esteem
Helping others and doing good for the community will create a natural sense of feeling good. It definitely gives your pride and puts you on a pedestal. After all, you are giving your time, care, and a helping hand to make somebody else feel better. Not to mention that this will give you a boost in your self-confidence. The aspect of helping others can have a profound effect on your overall psychological well-being.
Also keep in mind that when volunteering, you are not receiving monetary compensation. Therefore choose those organizations or actions, you feel closest to. It is a great way to give back to them. While helping others you can forget your own problems. Most of the time we help out those who in need and it can show us, that perhaps we are not in the worst position in our life. Another way of feeling good.
A little remark, when volunteering, you are gathering valuable experience, which can be useful in your life. For example when applying for a possible new job opportunity. Though we recommend not to go for a full-work option. Why? Read more from here.
Conclusions: the importance of volunteering
It’s clear the benefits of being a volunteer are huge. Don’t you think? Improved mental and physical health, possibility to make new friends, and feeling less lonely. It also gives you a sense of purpose and deeper self-confidence. In turn, all of these things will help to boost your overall happiness: a win-win situation for all involved.
Before considering volunteering, ask yourself a few questions before taking the plunge. Firstly, think about which causes you’re passionate about – it means you’re more likely to enjoy and stay committed to the work. We like food and veganism and hence our volunteering is connected to both of these subjects.
Secondly, are you looking for regular volunteering or one-time opportunities? Thirdly, consider the skills you can offer and what is it you are hoping to get from the gig. Is it to be around people, feel better, or learn something new. Whatever it is, the main idea of volunteering is to enjoy yourself and have fun!
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