Volunteering: Why You Should Do It

Volunteering is a selfless act. People around the world donate their time to a cause: animals, homeless shelters, children, the elderly, etc. Whether it’s an hour or hundreds of hours, it will make a difference.

 My summer days were spent watching TV, eating, time on the Internet, and moping around my house. I remembered that the care center near my house was always looking for volunteers, especially over the summer. What better way to spend your summer than helping out? I was accepted into the volunteer program a couple of weeks later. My duties include spending time with them, taking and picking up things from their room, paperwork, and the list goes on. Spending time with the elderly has already taught me more than I would have learned. It’s a humbling and amazing opportunity that I recommend to everyone. Here are the reasons why:

1. They Need It

Whether you are helping humans or animals, remember that they need it. I can’t count the number of times I’ve been thanked by the residents in the home I volunteer for. Typically the people in retirement homes, homeless shelters, and rehabilitation homes have no one but the people helping them and their fellow residents. Donating a couple of hours a week to play, talk and spend time with them will bring them happiness on the days they can’t see their family. Remember that animals don’t have anyone other than those helping them. Taking them out on walks, feeding them and playing with them after being abandoned or hurt will easily make an animal’s day. The reasons to volunteer go on and on but helping someone other than you is admirable.

2. The Lessons You Will Learn

Volunteering anywhere is a wonderful experience that will teach you many lessons. Since I’ve started volunteering at the home, I’ve heard many amazing stories from the residents. From stories about marriage to stories about war, they will never get old. A friend of mine has been volunteering at a shelter for women who were abused since the start of the 2012 school year. She loves helping the women and reassuring them that they will be okay. I have heard from friends that after volunteering they appreciate what they have a lot more. The little problems they would complain about in the past are no longer considered problems anymore.

3. Why Not To Do It

Although any volunteer work is good volunteer work, remember that volunteering is not about building a resume. Volunteering is about doing someone to help someone other than you. If you are passionate about cause, help. Just remember that it will feel like a job if you are not passionate about helping the cause.

I will never forget the day one of the residents began to tear up thanking the volunteers for helping her get through her lonely days. It brings us all so much joy to see them smile while playing bingo, reading and conversing with us. If you want to bring someone genuine joy, I suggest volunteering for a cause you are passionate about.