Four Reasons Why Volunteering Is Good For Your Soul

In a world where technology is king, we can find ourselves becoming less and less connected with others while the prevalence of sharing the highlight reel becomes the norm. I think we could all use a little reminder that giving back and giving your time for others is good for the soul. 

Volunteering is no longer that thing you were required to do in High School to meet your graduation requirements. Now, volunteering is a life-long opportunity that creates a deeper connection with your community and helps people live a more satisfying life.
Here are 4 reasons why volunteering is good for your soul:

1. Create new connections:

• When you donate your time you’ll be surrounding yourself with other like minded people- whether that be other volunteers or employees of the organization your volunteering your time at. This is a great way to expand your network! 
• Maybe you’ll make a new business connection, meet a new friend, or just surround yourself with people who share a common interest- either way, volunteering in your community will help you create connections.
  

​
2. Become inspired:

• When you volunteer with an organization you’re likely to see some amazing people benefiting from your services/time, as well as work with other volunteers that inspire you to do more. ​
  
• I know from my experience volunteering with the Special Olympics, I was so inspired by the athletes’ ability to push through perceived limitations to achieve their goals. It helped remind me that I can do anything I put my mind to regardless of whether others think I can do something or not.
  

​​3. Allows you to put your unique skills to work:

• Do you have an underutilized skill set that you can contribute to a local organization? 
  
  • Maybe you love to paint but don’t get to do so as often as you like- consider volunteering to make a piece of artwork for an auction.  
    
  • Do you love coordinating events- put those skills to work at your local non-profits upcoming gala. 
    
  • Are you really good at writing? Ask your favorite non-profit if you can help with their marketing materials or grant writing.
• Sometimes we have these unique skills that we don't get to use on an every day basis. Using these skills in volunteer work creates a deep sense of accomplishment and satisfaction!
  

​
4. Helps you make a difference in your community. 

• Volunteering your time and skills helps your community as a whole. No matter which organization you choose to volunteer your time at, your support of their mission will do wonders.

Do some research on organizations in your community whose mission is meaningful to you and reach out to them about upcoming volunteer opportunities. You won’t be disappointed by the aftermath of your volunteered time- a deeper sense of self satisfaction, pride from doing some good for others, and confidence knowing you’ve done something to benefit your community. All good things for the soul.

---

Allison Harker, Community Relations Manager

Allison has a background in non-profit work, which has always held a special place in her heart. Having a deeper meaning to the work she does is really important to her. She looks forward to supporting OCF and growing with the organization to make a difference in the lives of families here in Wyoming. ​