Before you say volunteering isn’t for you and stop reading, now is your chance to think again because April is National Volunteer month. Volunteering is truly a selfless act, and while it is true that volunteers typically give their time and energy and don’t expect anything in return, when you volunteer, you benefit. Take a look.
Volunteering improves mental and physical health because it keeps you moving and thinking at the same time. Whether it’s walking a dog for the animal shelter or helping clean up your community, volunteering has been shown to lower rates of depression, stress, and anxiety. Volunteers giving their time also report improved physical health in heart disease, stroke, and general illness.
Volunteering provides a sense of purpose. When you spend time in service, you naturally feel a sense of meaning and appreciation, and it promotes the idea of giving back. It connects you to others, often to those in your community, and allows you to make a positive impact. You will find this newly acquired sense of fulfilment and purpose promotes happiness and wellbeing, for you and those around you. For those older or retired, the experience creates greater life satisfaction and self-esteem.
Volunteering nurtures new and existing relationships. Today’s society often creates a sense of detachment. Being a volunteer can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. Dr. Frank Lipman, author of How to Be Well, writes, “When you give your time, energy and effort to a cause from a place of genuine altruism – giving for the pure sake of service to another – you experience an increased sense of belonging and connection, a greater experience of “shared humanity” that, in today’s polarized culture, can be hard to find.”
Volunteering in action. Non-profit Coulee Region RSVP has been in La Crosse for over 50 years and has provided meaningful volunteer experience for those aged 55 and better in La Crosse and Monroe Counties. Ruth Kinstler, the director since 2016, loves her job and coming to work every day. “The volunteers are amazing and have so much to give!”
Ruth gives encouragement to anyone who is on the fence about volunteering and will tell you, volunteering is for everyone! With no required or minimum hours, you choose what is right for you and where you want to make a difference. Ruth is always excited to tell new volunteers they are a one-stop shop for volunteering.
If you haven’t done much volunteering lately, or if this is unfamiliar territory for you, just give it a try. Find a cause that you're passionate about and offer your help. There is no shortage of worthy causes looking for volunteers just like you. Your actions, big or small, will help others and benefit your wellbeing.
Coulee Region RSVP (volunteers must be 55 years or better)
UGetConnected: a collaboration of Western Technical College, UWL, Viterbo, and the United Way
Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA)
Heidi Kutz
Education Specialist, ViaroHealth
For questions or comments, contact wellness@viarohealth.com