If you’ve ever felt a little ‘bleh’ about life or lacking fulfilment, connection or a sense of purpose you might like to give volunteering a try. From helping out at the school canteen, to clearing local bushland of weeds to dishing out bowls of soup to homeless, volunteering can activate the pleasure sensors in the brain with its multitude of benefits.
I’ve written before on the benefits of being charitable and generous as well as living with an attitude of gratitude and how profoundly it can positively impact us and those around us. Volunteering is particularly helpful for people feeling isolated and perfect for people moving into retirement to continue a level of routine, socialising and a sense of achievement. It is the ultimate form of ‘service to others’ and a rewarding way of giving back.
Volunteering doesn’t have to be with a charity, but it can be a nice place to start. Alternatively, you might like to start in your own neighbourhood by offering to help an elderly neighbour with their garden or take their bins out each week. Perhaps you can attend your kids’ P&C meetings or sort donations at a local women’s shelter. Ultimately, volunteering connects us with our community and ignites a sense of generosity which in turn shifts our focus from not having enough to appreciation and abundance.
Some volunteer roles involve more time commitment than others. A monthly contribution of your time is often enough for organisations with plenty of volunteers, other groups or clubs may require a commitment several times per week during peak seasons, such as sporting clubs.
According to Volunteering Australia latest statistics, there were over 5 million Australians involved in formal volunteer work in 2020. Note these statistics were collected during the pandemic which would have impacted volunteer rates, but even despite this, it is a figure that represents almost a quarter of the national population.
How to Get Involved
Environmental
Volunteering such as bush regeneration, wildlife preservation and beach clean ups are a rewarding way to make a difference in your local environment.
Skills based
Sharing your unique skills set can be incredibly helpful for non-profits who can’t afford to pay wages to keep their organisation running. It can be a great way to build work experience, grow your career and network while adding to your resume and references.
Virtual
Now, with the world at our fingertips via the internet there are more varied ways to volunteer than ever before. Virtual volunteering has opened up new opportunities for those less mobile or in more remote locations and can include tasks such as graphic design, data entry, online tutoring and help with social media or website updates.
Community
Community groups such as sporting clubs, schools, aged care facilities and hospitals, advocacy groups, homeless and women’s shelters, support groups and charities all require volunteers. These organisations can truly make a huge and positive difference in people’s lives. Most clubs, school events and even community gardens wouldn’t exist if not for a team of dedicated volunteers.
Work Based
Many companies encourage or even pay for their staff to be involved in volunteer work which can be beneficial in a number of ways such as enhancing employee engagement, improving a company’s reputation, and assisting with talent acquisition. Volunteer programs can help to cultivate a stronger sense of community, generate pride in one’s workplace and build valuable partnerships.
Australian Mutual Bank has a strong culture of community volunteering and in particular, our staff and organisation has been heavily involved in volunteering and raising funds for Barnardos, for many years.
Informal
Some people don’t even realise they are engaging in volunteer work, as informal volunteering can often be intentional or incidental. But lending a hand at a local sporting event or frying up sausages at the school fete does actually count. Even providing transport for a friend or neighbour, running errands, or undertaking unpaid childminding to help out a friend is considered volunteer work.
Even when the cost of living is high, many people still find the time and energy to give to others. When a tree falls during a storm or a fire rages in the countryside it is usually thanks to a team of volunteers helping to restore safety to its community. During times of crisis and disaster, the community often comes together with volunteers supporting those most impacted.
Volunteer work contributes to a more connected and resilient society and enhances the environmental, economic and societal wellbeing of the country. As well as activating feel good hormones for individuals involved, it also cultivates personal growth and fosters incredible psychological benefits including reduced stress levels and a sense of belonging. Volunteering enriches lives for all involved, whether you are volunteering or receiving. It brings people together for a common cause, and when community comes together it thrives.
Alison Gallagher is a freelance writer, resourcefulness expert and entrepreneur. She has been featured in various publications including Stellar Magazine, Australian Health and Fitness Magazine, and Cleo Magazine. Alison is particularly passionate about sharing practical tips on how to live simply, sustainably and seasonally.
