Volunteering

Volunteering is important on multiple levels, including the fact that it will help you have a greater sense of wellbeing. Of course the other upside is that you will have a positive effect on others.  But for the sake of your efforts here, please consider what happens when you give.

According to the Bush Houston Literacy Foundation, volunteering makes your brain release dopamine that provides the same feeling as a vigorous workout. It reduces stress, creates a purpose, a sense of wellbeing, increases brain activity and will make you feel better mentally and physically.  

Related Scientific numbers:

·         76% of people who volunteered in the last twelve months said that volunteering has made them feel healthier.

·         94%  of volunteers said that giving their time to a cause improved their mood.

·         78%  of volunteers said that it lowered their stress levels.

·         96%  reported that volunteering increased their sense of purpose in life.

So volunteering is a no-brainer for those looking to upgrade themself. But where do you begin? “Volunteer Match” is a great starting point. They match people interested in volunteering with opportunities that make a difference. Here is a link: https://www.volunteermatch.org/

Other Helpful Links

·         TED – Eric Cooper “Volunteering – The Beneficial Side Effects” https://www.ted.com/talks/eric_cooper_volunteering_the_beneficial_side_effects

·         TED – Diana Church “The Power Of Volunteering” https://www.ted.com/talks/diana_church_the_power_of_volunteering

~ Erik Knutson