Why Volunteer?
By: Tanya Avakian
Tags: Wellness, Happiness, Volunteering, Wellbeing, Volunteer

Hello to anyone that is stumbling upon my blog. This pandemic has definitely taken a toll on all of us, and it got me thinking about the effects it has had on people in need and the greater community. Previously, I used to spend my spare time volunteering, but since the start of Covid, I unfortunately stopped. It’s such a shame because I was able to gain even more than I was able to give from the experience, whether that be finding friends, connecting with a community, or learning new skills. Giving in simple ways can help others but also help you improve your happiness and well-being.

One great benefit I experienced from volunteering was the connections I formed with others. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people. It strengthens your ties to the community and broadens your support network, exposing you to people with common interests, neighborhood resources, and fun and fulfilling activities. While some people are naturally outgoing (uhmm like me), others are shy and have a hard time meeting new people. Volunteering can give you the opportunity to practice and develop your social skills since you are meeting regularly with a group of people with common interests.

Another incredible thing about volunteering is the wonders it does for the mind and body. Maybe this is just me but I’ve found that nothing relieves stress better than a meaningful connection to another person. What I do know is common is the immense pleasure people feel when they help others. I think the more we give, the happier we feel. Doing good for others and the community can provide a natural sense of accomplishment and also give you a sense of pride and identity. The better you feel about yourself, the more likely you are to have a positive view of your life and future goals. When I was volunteering I noticed it helped take my mind off my own worries, keep me mentally stimulated, and add more zest to my life.

For these reasons alone I need to get back into volunteering as soon as I can, but also for the great ways it can help advance my career. I don’t think it’s shallow to admit that volunteering can help you get experience in your area of interest and meet people in the field. Throughout my volunteer experiences, I’ve gained important skills that I’ve used in the workplace, such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, task management, and organization. To be honest, I felt much more comfortable stretching my wings in a work environment once I honed some of those skills I mentioned in a volunteer position first.

Lastly, I’ve found volunteering to simply be fun and fulfilling because it became an easy way for me to explore my interests and passions. I found it to be a great escape from my day-to-day routine of work, school, and family commitments. My parents themselves were big on volunteering because they believed that it inspired creativity, motivation, and vision that could carry over into my personal and professional life, and I have to say that they were right. Once I started identifying some of my goals and interests it made the volunteering experiences I chose to partake in that much more meaningful and enjoyable.

Since the start of Covid, I haven’t really done much volunteer work, and after writing this blog it got me thinking about why I love volunteering and it’s hitting me how much I miss it. I can’t wait to seek out opportunities that match both my goals and my interests once this is all over and I encourage you to do the same!