Volunteer work is undertaken by people for a variety of reasons. For some it offers the chance to make a real impact on the community and boost their wellbeing. For others, it provides an opportunity to develop new skills and improve employment prospects. It can also help you to meet new people and widen your social circle. Regardless of the motivation, what unites them all is that they find it both challenging and rewarding.

Personal benefits

Volunteering is often undertaken for one’s personal well-being benefits. Researchers have found that dedicating your time away from work to a good cause greatly improves your physical and mental health. Volunteer work is considered as an escape from the day-to-day routine and has the power to lift emotions to a positive place, as individuals are focused to support an organisation close to their heart. Because volunteering means choosing to work without receiving monetary compensation, people often choose to give their time to issues or organisations they feel are important or have a special connection to.

In addition, volunteering gives you a chance to make a real difference in the lives of others and contribute to the world you want to live in. It gives you the opportunity to use your skills and knowledge to support a cause bigger than yourself.

Your role as a volunteer can also increase your confidence and self-esteem by doing good for others and the community. Furthermore, exercising outside of your comfort zone and environment, will give you a sense of pride and accomplishment that will boost your personal growth.

Employment benefits 

Volunteering can also be seen as a way to advance your career and provide you with employment competitive advantages. It gives you the opportunity to gain skills and knowledge that are useful in the workplace such as project management, teamwork, organisation and communication. Furthermore, being in contact with people from different backgrounds and age groups will open your mind to new perspectives and develop your creative skills.

Joining a volunteer cause is a great way to gain experience in a new field and explore your interests and passions. If you are considering a new career, volunteering offers you the chance to get work experience without making a long-term commitment.

Moreover, volunteering can provide you with employment advantages as it will enhance your CV and helps to create a positive impression. Indeed, research shows that 90% of recruiters believe that volunteering improves your chances of career progression. It shows that you are willing to invest your time and energy in causes close to your heart, without financial compensation.

Social benefits

For some, volunteering appeals because of its social benefits. Working as a volunteer is a great way to meet new people and widen your social circle if you are feeling lonely or new to the area. In fact, volunteering is an important and interesting way to meet people who you might not normally connect with: people from different age groups, ethnicities or social groups, which can only open your eyes further. It is also the opportunity to make real connections that can have a lasting impact on your life. Sharing activities together allows you to strengthen your ties and broaden your network while working alongside people with similar interests.

By Charlotte Caradot – Community Manager at Mentornect