Whether you’re looking for a way to improve your community or simply want to do something good for yourself, volunteer work is the perfect opportunity. The benefits of volunteering extend far beyond the work itself and include improved health, social and professional development, and a sense of fulfilment.
It’s no secret that volunteering boosts self-esteem, confidence and life satisfaction. It also helps reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to heart disease. Volunteering can even help improve your overall cardiovascular health by lowering levels of cholesterol, blood pressure and reducing blood glucose.
Local schools are often seeking volunteers to assist with a variety of tasks including working in the canteen, reading with children, chaperoning excursions or even helping out in the office. This type of volunteering can provide a great learning experience for the kids and yourself. You’ll need a Working with Children check to volunteer at schools, and you’ll probably be asked to complete some training before starting work.
Animal shelters are constantly seeking volunteers who can care for animals. The duties can range from cleaning cages, playing with cats and dogs to feeding and bathing them. You can also learn a lot about wildlife, ecology and conservation in this type of volunteering. Environmental conservation volunteer roles can be physically demanding and involve activities such as rubbish collection, afforestation, invasive species management and habitat restoration.
Volunteering can also be a fantastic way to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships. You’ll be working with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences, which can promote empathy, tolerance and understanding of other cultures and perspectives.