Five Reasons To Volunteer this Global Volunteer Month
April is Global Volunteer Month, a time to honor the amazing volunteers that give their time and energy to improve their communities.
Despite the difficulties of the last few years, volunteerism has remained an important value for many Oregonians. In 2021, more than 974,000 Oregonians volunteered through a nonprofit, taking advantage of the creative ways that organizations shifted their volunteer efforts to allow for socially distant opportunities and ultimately contributing $2.6 billion in economic value.
Volunteers from Lane Transit District serving at Florence Food Share during Days of Caring 2023.
“I think it is important for everyone with the means and ability to volunteer. Together by taking care of our community we can help ensure the community is able to take care of those that come after us. ”
Whether you’re new to volunteering or looking to return to it, here are five reasons to volunteer this Global Volunteer Month:
Volunteering makes you healthier.
Studies show that people who volunteer tend to report higher levels of well-being, including mental and physical health, life satisfaction, self-esteem, and happiness. So next time you’re looking for a fun way to get active, consider checking out some local volunteer opportunities!
2. Volunteering helps hone your passions and skills.
Consider what social and environmental causes interest you, what skills you may want to offer or build, and in what capacities you want to serve: direct service, advocacy, administrative support, etc. Service is more meaningful when aligned with what you care about and are interested in.
Volunteers serving at Two Rivers/Dos Rios Elementary during BookFest 2023.
3. Volunteering enables you to make an impact.
While not everyone has the means to give financially, the gift of your time can be just as valuable. According to Independent Sector’s 2022 analysis, the value of one hour of volunteer service in Oregon in 2022 equated to $32.37. During United Way’s 2023 Days of Caring, 816 volunteers served with 30 nonprofits for 59 projects, totaling 3,220 volunteer hours and an estimated value of $102,396 back into our community! This level of volunteer engagement can have huge impacts, especially for small or emerging nonprofits.
4. Volunteering is a great way to make new friends.
Looking to rub elbows with folks in your community? Volunteering allows you to easily meet new people and build new social connections. And if you’re serving a cause you’re passionate about, you’ll likely meet other volunteers who are passionate about it, too.
5. Volunteering connects you to the issues affecting your community.
Local organizations know the needs of the communities they serve and are working hard to improve outcomes. When you serve with these organizations, you learn about and get to make an impact on the biggest issues facing our friends and neighbors in Lane County.
No matter when you start or where you serve, the impact of volunteering clearly benefits you, local nonprofits, and your broader community.
Looking for opportunities? United Way of Lane County hosts a list of local volunteer opportunities, added by nonprofits and initiatives around Lane County. Browse positions today at volunteeruwlane.org/search.
“Giving back to the community is an essential part of ‘being community,’ and this a small way that I can do that. I am thankful for the opportunity.”