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BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING

While volunteering makes a difference to those whom we serve, it also has great benefits for those who provide the service. Why volunteer?

Learn Something New – Develop a new skill, discover a hidden talent, add to your knowledge base. We should be life long learners. . . learning something new and exciting adds to the enjoyment and quality of our life.

Meet New People – Volunteering offers you the opportunity to meet new and diverse people and to develop lasting friendships and professional contacts.

Feel Good – Helping others makes you feel good about yourself. Think about it. . . can you think of something that makes you feel better inside than helping others? Whether it’s raising money for a cause you are passionate about or building a house as part of a Habitat project, chances are it will give you a sense of purpose and perhaps even a new perspective on life.

Gain Professional Skills – Volunteering is an excellent way to build your portfolio - add professional skills, expertise, and experience to your existing resume.

Become Connected to Your Community – Volunteering is a great way to become a part of the larger community – whether it’s your life on campus, your neighborhood, your city or town, or beyond. Volunteering can make you feel connected and part of something bigger than yourself.

Improve Your Health – New research indicates that there is a link between doing volunteer work for others and living a happier, healthier, longer life.

It’s The Right Thing to Do – “To whom much is given, much is expected.” As students receiving a higher education, living in America, having food, shelter, and other materials goods, you are privileged and have a responsibility to those who do not share your gifts of access. What better way to fulfill this responsibility than giving back?

WHY DO YOU VOLUNTEER?

"It is great to volunteer! The feeling of knowing you helped someone or making someone smile because of something you did for them is unbelieveable. I volunteer because I know how it feels personally to need just a little bit of support and when you receive it, the feeling is undescribale."- Sophmore Brittany Briscoe Valdosta State University 

"Volunteering is important because there are so many people who are less fortunate and need the community's help for basic needs. After a day of volunteering the reward is amzaing, knowing that you helped someone who truely appreicates what you are doing for them." -Senior Amanda Fletcher Valdosta State University

Reflection after doing service is the best way to get the most out of your experience