The Health and Wellness Benefits of Volunteering
People often think of volunteering as a selfless act of service to others, without expecting anything in return or considering the personal benefits. However, there are perks to volunteering that go beyond helping others.
Volunteering can also support the physical and mental health of individuals. When people volunteer their time, they typically work with others and stay active to further a cause they care about. These benefits go unspoken and often overlooked.
Mental Health Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering in the community can provide a sense of purpose and meaning, which boosts mental health. When an individual agrees to help with a project or knows others are relying on them to do a task, it gives them a feeling of direction for their day.
It could be as simple as sorting out donations or more complex tasks. The volunteer acts with determination, knowing there are people who depend on them or a cause to be advanced, which drives action. They experience the positive feeling of accomplishment which supports positive mental health.
Volunteering also stimulates the mind and strengthens problem-solving skills. This mental stimulation prompts the brain to think about tasks, such as organizing donations on the shelves, as well as thinking about future tasks and planning next steps.
By shifting the focus away from minor daily stressors and focusing on something that can be controlled, volunteering can lower anxiety. It can also increase life satisfaction compared with those who do not volunteer (Merschel, 2023).
Volunteering Makes Personal Connections
A primary motivator for volunteering is the opportunity to connect with like-minded people or those with similar interests. People look for opportunities to gather together to share ideas and often unite in a cause or activity they care about. This allows volunteering to bring people from a variety of backgrounds together.
Especially for people who are new to a community, volunteering is often seen as a way to get to know others and feel connected. This involvement reduces the feelings of isolation and loneliness while building connections and support systems, which contribute to greater social well-being.
Physical Health Benefits of Volunteering
Overall, volunteers tend to have better health and functioning ability compared to non-volunteers (Thoreson, 2023). It is a great way to boost the calories burned each day and get the body moving.
Volunteering does not have to be physically demanding, such as lifting heavy objects, to have healthy benefits. There are many opportunities that allow people to be active at a level that fits their abilities, such as greeting visitors or assisting with clerical tasks. Even this light movement can have its health benefits as people age. Although a task may require sitting more than moving, the action of leaving the house and getting to the location requires some physical movement.
Volunteering in the community is a win-win for everyone. Not only does it support the organization or individuals served. It also supports mental health, promotes physical activity, builds social connections, and keeps the mind of the volunteer active.
For those considering volunteering in the community, there are opportunities that will match your interests and availability. Even a small commitment of two hours a month can provide personal benefits while also making a positive impact to help others.
References: Merschel, Michael, 2023. Help others, help yourself? Why volunteering can be good for you. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2023/05/30/help-others-help-yourself-why-volunteering-can-be-good-for-you
Thoreson, Angela, 2023. Helping people, changing lives: 3 health benefits of volunteering. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/3-health-benefits-of-volunteering
by Tracy Hemsath, Volunteer Leadership and Development Agent, 2026