by Natasha Yerena, YourPace Contributor
It can be difficult to give when our wallets and time are tight. With the rising cost of living, many think they can’t afford to give what they don’t have. However, it is our ability to help one another in challenging times that can empower and strengthen our sense of community. As school starts back and we get closer to the holiday season, the opportunities to give back to our communities are abundant. Taking the time to volunteer can have huge benefits for both those who give and receive.
Communities rely on volunteers to help either through organizations or independently. When people offer their skills, knowledge, and time, others can receive the help and care they need. According to the Census Bureau, in 2021 51 percent of the American population reported informally volunteering (not through an organization) to help their neighbors.
Despite the devastation of Covid-19 pandemic, the people in the United States continued to serve each other and their communities. They helped with things like running errands and watching children. There are many ways people can help their communities, and their work can have a tremendous impact.
Volunteering not only benefits those in need but also those who give their time and effort. Daniel Kim, a student at the University of Arizona, volunteered earlier this year on a book donation project. The project was organized to gather book donations for children to read during the summer. “It was a great experience helping with the book drive,” he noted.”It was
my first time participating in a project related to books and reading. It felt good to help collect book donations so kids in the area could read. It was really important”. Students can especially benefit from volunteering as it helps them gain valuable experience and learn the importance of volunteer work.
Volunteer work can also help people feel connected with their communities. This can be beneficial for retirees.
Lucy Stout of Sahuarita, Arizona started volunteering for the Sahuarita Food Bank last year.
“I love it,” she said. ” I’ve made friends since I started and I have seen the work that they do in their communities. They’ve created a safe place for people to come and get what they need for the week. I’m glad I’m able to contribute my time and effort to help them.”
Although retirees can benefit from the connection and engagement of volunteering, they’re not the only ones. Anyone can benefit from connecting and helping their community.
There are so many options and resources to choose from. If you’re interested in volunteering, start with what interests you. Whether it’s helping children read, working with the local food
bank, or spending time at an animal shelter, there’s no shortage of volunteer positions. Volunteering helps both those who give and receive. It strengthens our sense of community and builds connections. The work is invaluable and rewarding for everyone.
The Sahuarita Food Bank relies on volunteers to support local communities.
