By Burham, Lourdes, Morgan and Mike, January 2025
As we begin a new year, it’s a great time to think about ways to make a difference in your life and the lives of others. Volunteering can be good. It can be a rewarding experience, especially if you like helping others and making friends in your community. Here are some good things about volunteering that can make this year your best one yet:
1. Build New Skills
Volunteering allows you to learn new skills and improve the ones you already have. Whether it’s working with computers, organising events or gardening, volunteering offers hands-on experience that can boost your confidence and improve your skills.
2. Meet New People
One of the great things about volunteering is the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and walks of life. Building new friendships and connections can help you feel more included and part of a community. It’s also a chance to share your own experiences with others.
3. Boost Your Wellbeing
Helping others has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental health. Volunteering gives you a sense of purpose. Knowing you’re making a difference makes you feel proud. It can also lift your mood and give you a reason to look forward to the day.
4. Make a Positive Impact
Volunteering isn’t just good for you—it’s good for the people or causes you support. Whether you’re helping at a food bank, helping in a community garden or volunteering at an event, your time and effort can make a real difference in someone’s life.
5. Gain Experience for Work
If you’re thinking of getting a job, volunteering is a great way to gain experience. Many jobs value the skills and experience volunteers bring. It can help you build a good CV. Volunteering can also give you an idea of what types of work you might enjoy doing in the future.
6. Feel More Connected
Volunteering helps you become more involved in your local community. It’s a way to feel connected to others and show support for the place where you live. The sense of belonging and giving back can be very rewarding.
As you set your goals for the year, think about making volunteering a part of your plan. Whether you volunteer once a month or every week, the benefits to your personal growth, wellbeing, and the community around you can be life-changing. So, why not start this year by helping others and see what positive changes come your way?
