Volunteering is an excellent way of giving back to the community and often doesn’t cost you a lot.
December is the perfect time to do your bit for the community. Since many organisations, like orphanages, NGOs and soup kitchens, may need to continue functioning with a smaller team of staff members this time of the year, they could probably do with an extra helping hand.
ALSO SEE: Celebrate The Season of Giving By Supporting These Charities
Here are four reasons why volunteering this festive season should be on your to-do list:
1. You create a positive impact on people’s lives
When you give back, you’re contributing to making other people’s lives better. Whether you’re reading a book to someone at a nursing home or making sandwiches for the homeless, you have the opportunity, which you may not always get, to affect someone’s life positively. Giving back also awakens feelings of humanity, compassion and appreciation. By doing good for others, you feel good about yourself.
2. You inspire others to volunteer too
Many people who have volunteered were inspired by someone else at some point in their lives. This is because good behaviour can be contagious. When people see you volunteering in any way, it’s highly likely that they will consider doing the same.
ALSO SEE: Animal Shelters: The Best Places To Volunteer
3. It’s a great way to learn new skills
Successful volunteering requires a collective effort and, believe it or not, not every person is good at working in a team. Volunteering can teach you conflict resolution skills, empathy, a change of perspective, and can build morale if you’re doing it as a team.
4. It can boost your career prospects
Your qualifications and skills aren’t the only things that potential employers are looking for. When recruiters see on your CV that you have been a volunteer, it creates a positive impression of you. It shows that you are selfless, helpful and that you care about the community. Who wouldn’t want someone like that working for their company?
ALSO SEE: How To Combat Loneliness And Depression Over The Festive Season
Volunteering may require a little bit of travelling, especially if it’s not in your area. Make sure you’re up to date with your car insurance premiums before offering a helping hand so that you can travel with peace of mind.
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