Giving back to your community by volunteering is an incredibly rewarding use of your free time, both for you and the community you’re serving. When you volunteer, you contribute to the well being and improvement of your community, whether it’s through helping at a local hospital, or homeless shelter. These actions not only address immediate needs, but also stimulate a sense of unity and responsibility. The community benefits from the services you provide as well, which can lead to a higher quality of life. Also, volunteering can bring people together, helping our social bonds and maintaining a supportive community.
On a personal level, volunteering has many advantages, one of which is the releasing of endorphins. Endorphins are hormones produced by the brain that act as natural mood elevators. Taking part in acts of kindness, and helping others can trigger the brain’s reward system, leading to the release of these endorphins. This can result in feelings such as euphoria, and “helper’s high”. Also, volunteering provides a sense of purpose and achievement, which can really help our mental health. By dedicating your free time to volunteering and helping your community- you will not only make a positive impact on your community, but also personally grow; making this activity truly valuable.
