Top 10 Benefits of Volunteering

Norwescap's Top 10 Benefits of Volunteering

Embracing the new year creates a flurry of promises and resolutions. The only place you’re going to find a greater flurry is in the swirling of chilly snowflakes we witness outside our January windows. As winter creates a longing for warmer days of sunshine, may our longings to succeed at a New Year’s Resolution run as strong. Here is a great blog for you, compliments of Norwescap. Whether your goal is to walk more, chisel those washboard abs, or shed that last 10 pounds, Norwescap believes there’s another option to transform your year – the enriching world of volunteering. Yes, we might be a bit biased as an organization that attributes much of our success to the support of volunteers, but by the end of this blog, we hope to spark a bias in you too.

So, in 2024, while many were googling weight loss tips and vacation spots, we were on a different quest putting in keyword searches like: “volunteering benefits,” “psychological effects of volunteering,” and “health impact of volunteer work.” What we found was nothing short of fantastic! Lists, articles, scientific studies, and social experiments all shouted one consensus: Volunteering is great! And just for you, we’ve condensed this treasure trove of information into our Top 10 Benefits of Volunteering list here:

1. Boosted Happiness – Did you know that volunteering has been linked to increased levels of serotonin and dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitters? When you lend a helping hand, your brain rewards you with a natural high, leading to a brighter mood and improved overall well-being.

To see what a ‘brighter mood’ looks like in action, you can get a daily dose by following our social media feeds! The Norwescap Facebook and Instagram channels show glimpses of all the smiles occurring across our programs as they Create Opportunities! Also watching our videos on YouTube. At Norwescap, you’ll witness the Smile-Making that happens as a byproduct of our work.

2. Stress Reduction – Engaging in volunteer work acts as a stress buster. The sense of purpose and fulfillment derived from making a positive impact can significantly reduce stress levels, promoting a healthier mental state. So if “Reducing Stress” was one of your resolutions for 2024, it’s time to look into Norwescap’s Volunteer Opportunities.

3. Physical Health Perks – Believe it or not, volunteering isn’t just good for the soul—it’s a workout for the body too. Many volunteer activities involve physical tasks, helping to keep you active and fit while contributing to a cause you care about.

Mark your calendars for Earth Day! Norwescap Community Development hosts an Annual Community Day of Action to celebrate this national holiday. Neighborhood Cleanup:

If you’re passionate about the environment, join our Earth Day festivities. Save the date; April 20, 2024 and get involved in cleaning up, planting, and more! Reach out to Norwescap Community Development and their Phillipsburg projects by clicking here: Norwescap Phillipsburg Community Development.

4. Social Butterfly Transformation – Volunteering can be a social extravaganza! Whether you’re working with a team at a local food pantry or collaborating on community projects, the connections you make can lead to lasting friendships and an expanded support network.

At Norwescap, Corporate Teams have come out for specific projects and gained so much more than what they anticipated. Take a look at some of those projects by perusing our Facebook posts here: Norwescap on Facebook.

5. Increased Self-Esteem – Who would of thought? It’s like therapy! Ok, we’re not claiming that, but we did find plenty of research that bearswitness to the positive impact that your volunteer efforts can have on your self-esteem. Knowing that you’ve made a difference in someone’s life cultivates a sense of accomplishment and boosts confidence.

To hear stories of real-life connections to the services happening at Norwescap, take a peek at our Stories of Resilience here: Norwescap Stories of Resilience.

6. A Course in Mindfulness: – Volunteering often involves being present and in-the-moment, fostering mindfulness. Whether you’re teaching, planting trees, or assisting in a community event, the immersive experience can enhance your ability to stay present and appreciate the now.

There’s no more experience in being present than that of being surrounded by the bubbling uplifted spirit of little ones! Have you ever considered being a Celebrity Reader in one of our Head Start classrooms? We are currently scheduling for the week of Read Across America, a national holiday enforcing the value of education and ceebarting a favorite children’s books author, Dr. Sueess’s birthday.

Be a part of our Head Start and Early Head Start programs by volunteering to read to children during Read Across America in early March 2024. Become a Celebrity Reader and make a difference by reaching out to June Zunglolo at calling (908) 454-8830 or by email: zungoloj@norwescap.org today or read up about Norwescap Head Start here: Norwescap Early Head Start and Head Start programs.

7. Learning Extravaganza – Every volunteering opportunity is a chance to acquire new skills. Whether it’s leadership, communication, or problem-solving, the diverse experiences gained while volunteering can serve as a real-world classroom.

A great learning opportunity may be found in our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. You can sign up to become a VITA Volunteer all year long and gain vital tax prep training provided by the IRS. Whether helping with tax preparation or assisting in scheduling appointments Norwescap needs you! Contact Rochelle Ostenfeld by email at: ostenfeldr@norwescap.org, or call her at 973-784-4900 or visit this link: Norwescap Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

8. The Fountain of Youth!? – Studies suggest that volunteering may contribute to a longer, healthier life. The positive effects on mental and physical health, coupled with a sense of purpose, create a potent elixir for a fulfilling and extended life. This IS more promising than wrinkle cream!

While we’re on the topic of longevity, let us consider that one common denominator amongst us – aging! It’s a path we’re all on and no amount of wrinkle cream is going to stop it. A great action step you can take as a volunteer might be supporting our senior citizens. You can help the Norwescap Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP) in providing companionship and support to seniors through services like “Friendship at Heart.” Be a Friendly Visitor, Telephone Reassurance, Senior Cents, or Grocery Shopper volunteer. For more information, contact Walter Zemlanicky zemlanickyw@norwescap.org or by calling 973-784-4900, ext. 2905, or reach the general Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP) mailbox at: rsvp@norwescap.org.