What does volunteering have to do with career management?
For that matter, what does volunteering have to do with health? Isn’t it the recipient of volunteerism that benefits?
Research indicates that the benefits of volunteering go beyond the recipient and provide multiple benefits to the volunteer. Whether young or old, volunteers can experience improved health while making their community a better place to live.
An Ontario study indicated that volunteers benefited through improved self-esteem, reduced heart rates and blood pressure, enhanced immune systems, reduced stress, lessened social isolation and increased production of endorphin, a hormone that our bodies produce to make us feel good.
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Did you know that Canadians volunteer 1.1 billion hours a year, the equivalent to 578,000 full-time jobs? Volunteering is an often overlooked factor that contributes to the Canadian economy and community spirit.
Volunteers are needed everywhere in every sized community and by volunteering, they gain a variety of personal and career benefits:
- Communication skills such as public speaking, writing and public relation activities.
- Interpersonal skills such as motivating others, confidence and dealing with difficult situations.
- Managerial and organizational skills.
- Ablity to meet interesting people for friendship and activities.
- Networking opportunities that may lead to work experience and job opportunities.
- Personal satisfaction and opportunities for fun.
Volunteering looks great on a resume and develops skills that can be transferred to the workplace.
It can also help gain experience in new areas that may interest you.
Remember, society recognizes and values your efforts, and your new skills can catch the eye of prospective employers.
Have you volunteered lately? Do you want to get involved?
I have been a Rotarian (Rotary International) for more than 10 years and my involvement changed my life and career direction. I experienced personal growth, learned many new skills and felt empowerment.
More importantly, I gained a new perspective that affected my life while helping and working with others.
So what are you waiting for? This is my invitation to you. Make friends, feel good, become healthier and improve your career skills. Do something good for your community and yourself.
Therri Papp is a career development educator offering on-line personal development programs and career consulting to individuals and business groups. For further information call 306-249-4937 or visit www.freeyesinfo.com.
