Why Volunteer — The Benefits Of Supporting A Cause
Technology is changing the way we live and how we interact with the world today. Though it made our lives easier, the overuse and overdependence have disconnected humans from each other. And with the rise of automation, leading to increased sedentary or semi-sedentary work, the situation is taking a toll on mental and physical health. As a result, we are surrounded by negative energy, often leading to stress and depression.
We all live in a completely interdependent world and are more interconnected than our past generations. Whatever happens in one region eventually affects other areas, and one cannot deny this fact considering current circumstances. The notable point is that the benefits we enjoy today are due to the sacrifices made by previous generations.
How can we give back to society yet remain happy and stay healthy without affecting any work-life balance? The answer is simple – be a volunteer. Give your time and skills for free to benefit others, the local community and society in general. Volunteering makes us feel more “socially connected” and also broadens our perspective about life. It resonates with the law of karma; everything we do creates corresponding energy that comes back to us in some form or another.
Being an active volunteer for more than ten years, I worked in different areas that included nature conversation, education, social service, and governance. Whenever I moved to a new location, I always chose to volunteer as the medium to connect, learn and grow. As an aspiring project manager, I decided to associate with a local PMI chapter to practice project management skills. My volunteering experience with the PMI Durham Highlands Chapter has been phenomenal. Collaborating with a culturally diverse team helped to experiment and unleash the creative potential in delivering a better output. The experience helped me grow my network, learn new skills, be a better communicator and develop my leadership skills. The Durham College Alumni Association (DCAA) Leaders of the Future Award, nominated me for demonstrating consistent and outstanding leadership; as a result of cause and effect for being an active volunteer. I am humbled - thank you. If you are a recent graduate or someone who has been out of work for a while and worrying about how to build experience and fill in gaps, then step into volunteering to demonstrate skills and showcase your resume achievements.
Time and again, researches have shown that there is a link between volunteering and happiness. With changing times, volunteering has replaced laughter as the next best medicine. Each year, December 5th is celebrated as the International Volunteer Day, to promote volunteering and celebrating the efforts of volunteers. The next time you feel stressed out, bored, or lonely, then lend your time for a cause and experience the power of volunteering. It is beneficial for your body, mind, and spirit.
I would be happy to know and learn from your volunteering experiences. Feel free to share in the comments section below. Alternately, you may email me at [email protected] with your questions.
—Sameer Nandan Menda
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