Does volunteer work have benefits beyond just lending a helping hand in the community? That was the question posed by blogger Robert Rosenthal in a recent post from April 16, 2010. He referred to a survey conducted by one national health insurance company, United Healthcare, which found the majority of the those who volunteer on a regular basis report better health. The results showed that:
- "68% of those who volunteered in the past year report that volunteering made them feel physically healthier.
- 29% of volunteers who suffer from a chronic condition say that volunteering has helped them manage their chronic illness.
- 89% of volunteers agree that volunteering improved their sense of well-being.
- 73% of volunteers feel that volunteering lowered their stress levels, and,
- 92% of volunteers agree that volunteering enriches their sense of purpose in life".
Futhermore, the Corporation for National and Community Service, who reviewed more than 30 studies evaluating the correlation between volunteer work and health, found that volunteering actually leads to improved physical and mental health. Health experts are now looking into utilizing community service as a possible form of therapy.
However, patients need not wait for the doctor to write a prescription for volunteer work to enjoy the benefits of giving service. Just last weekend The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, working with other community groups, sponsored the "Day of Service" on Saturday, April 24th. This annual event gives community members throughout the Southeast region of the United States an opportunity to participate in important service projects in their area. In Central Florida, there were multiple projects going on in Orlando, Titusville, Melbourne, Cocoa, Palm Bay and Winter Haven. A summary of the work that was done and those involved can be found on the Day of Service website.
Several residents commented on how it made them feel to be able to give service. Of note, one local resident in the Melbourne area, remarked that her recent experience actually helped her overcome a serious bout with depression following some significant family hardships. She had been involved in making dresses to send to disaster victims in Haiti. Although struggling with hers and her family's own needs, she recognized the importance of being involved in this great project. She remarked that she felt as if this particular opportunity was "designed especially for [her]". It was a simple service project, and something she enjoyed, but found that she benefited as much as those she was serving. She feels her depression has resolved completely, and she credits the diversion the work provided. She added, "I thought 'one dress and a thousand smiles'. The depression is gone. That surely was a lot cheaper than having to go to a psychiatrist!"
While single events such as the Day of Service 2010 provide beneficial volunteer opportunities, there are a number of on going projects and community service groups which are always in need of volunteers. Check with local churches, the YMCA/YWCA, PAL centers and public schools for opportunities in the Central Florida area. And remember, "when you are open to give, you are open to receive".
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