There are many benefits to volunteering whether it is motivated by societal needs or more personal reasons. While giving of one’s time, knowledge and skills certainly benefits the recipient, it can also be very rewarding for the person doing the giving. Below is a list of reasons for becoming a volunteer. If you would like to get involved in your community, contact your local volunteer centre.
On a professional level, volunteering will help you:
- Develop new skills and acquire new knowledge
- Confirm a career choice
- Prepare to re-enter the workforce after being out of the job market for a while
- Optimize your resume or education record by mentioning relevant volunteer work
On an interpersonal level, volunteering will help you:
- Develop certain social skills including communication skills, empathy, self-affirmation and cooperation
- Overcome isolation or develop a healthy, positive lifestyle
- Establish significant relationships with people who share common interests with you
- Fulfil your need to belong by joining a group or association
On a personal level, volunteering will help you:
- Stay active and in good physical health
- Increase your self-confidence and self-esteem
- Increase your self-knowledge and awareness of your interests, needs and values
- Be open-minded about other people and their differences
Volunteering is a good way of expressing your commitment to social issues:
- By working for a cause that is close to your heart in order to effect change and make a difference
- By giving back as a means of expressing your gratitude to society for the help or services you received
Volunteering can be fun! It can provide opportunities to:
- Discover different countries through humanitarian travel
- Access events or shows free-of-charge
- Work on something you’re passionate about and discover new passions as well
- Choose your schedule and availabilities
- Laugh and have fun with friends and family
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