Why not commit to a New Year’s resolution that benefits others and yourself at the same time?
Another year has passed and 2018 is here! Now is the time that many of us are reflecting on the passing year and thinking about what we want to do differently in the new year. Oftentimes times new year resolutions revolve around us and self-improvement. The most common New Year’s resolutions, according to research by inc.com, are a healthier lifestyle, financial security, and learning new skills. As you can see, most resolutions revolve around us as the beneficiaries of changes. Self-improvement is important, and It's something that we all must do to be the best we can be personally. That being said, there is another resolution that many of us should be focusing on that creates both self and community improvement.
That action is volunteerism.
Make a New Year’s Resolution to Provide Service
Volunteerism is one of the most selfless actions that we can take to assist others in need and build the community in which we live. Although volunteerism focuses on helping others, the action also provides benefits to the participant. Volunteerism has been shown to improve confidence, reduce depression, provide new skills, and increase socialization for those who commit their time. Volunteerism is truly an action that pays dividends and provides benefits to all involved. Did you know that 76% of people who volunteered in the last 12 months say that volunteering has made them feel healthier? The same study showed that 96% of people who volunteer say that volunteering has enriched their sense of purpose. How is that for self-improvement?
Nonprofits Have a Real Need for Your Service Today
The need for volunteerism and your service in 2018 is great. Nonprofits need you to help them reach their organizational goals and ultimately fulfill their mission of the greater good. Nonprofits are looking to fill both general and skilled volunteer opportunities every day. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, volunteer rates dropped by 0.4% between 2014 and 2015. However, the need for volunteerism has increased substantially. The value of the everyday volunteer has increased to over $24.00 an hour as of 2016 vs less than $23.00 in 2013. Most nonprofits today operate with the support of volunteers. Some nonprofits are even completely volunteer-driven. If you do not believe that your service could make an impact it's time to think again.
How to Start the Process of Volunteering
The process of becoming a volunteer is not a difficult task to achieve. As a new potential volunteer, there are a few steps you will want to take to find the right opportunity to fill.
Here are a few steps you will want to take:
- Think about the causes that you are passionate about devoting your time to.
- Make a list of the opportunities you are interested in filling and the skills you can provide as a volunteer.
- Look for volunteer opportunities in your local community (you can find these online)
- Volunteer!
- Let the organization you volunteer with know about your experience.
Takeaways
Why not make a New Year’s resolution this year that benefits everyone involved? Volunteerism can provide you with the self-improvement you are looking for while making an impact on the greater good. Nonprofits all over the world are looking for volunteers, just like you, to help them make a difference.
