The Value of Volunteering
Did you know that volunteers live longer than their non-volunteering counterparts? Regardless of sex, ethnicity or other demographics, people who give time to help others have proven longer life expectancies.
Maybe it´s because volunteers step out of their own lives and make the time to look into others; maybe they enjoy enhanced friendships through a volunteer activity; maybe it´s just because they enjoy what they do. Whatever the reason, volunteers get more out of life and they make life better for the people around them.
That´s part of the reason 2001 was named The International Year of Volunteers by the United Nations. The goals of the event are:
- Recognition of volunteers and volunteer action.
- Promotion of volunteerism and the great contributions of volunteers.
- Facilitation of volunteer opportunities.
- Enhanced networking opportunities for people involved with issues of voluntary activity.
Why is it important to promote volunteerism? Because volunteers are unmatched in the power of their contribution. In the US in 1998, an estimated 109 million people took part in some form of volunteer activity. Their contribution represented the equivalent of over 9 MILLION full–time employees at a value of – are you ready? – $225 billion!
Volunteers also get results when they apply their talents to a project or a cause. Volunteers build unity by fostering a spirit of community. They know they make a difference and that they are "part of something bigger than myself." Volunteer work also promotes equality since it is an equal–opportunity activity, crossing age, race, ethnic, social, religious, and economic lines. Everyone is equal because everyone has something to contribute.
Would your life be improved by adding a volunteer activity? While it´s true that many of us are overwhelmed by the busy-ness of our lives, it´s also true that we might benefit from a closer look at what’s really important – and what’s just urgent!
You´ll be glad you did!
Speaker's Bureau
If your club or organization would like to host a presentation on a health topic or issue, please contact our Speaker's Bureau to make arrangements.