August 28th, 2018

VOLUNTEERISM

​What are the some of the benefits of being a volunteer? For one thing, it is great for your health! From lowering stress to boosting self-confidence, volunteerism not only makes a difference in the lives of others, research shows that it can also improve one’s health. The Mayo Clinic, in an article titled, “Helping People, Changing Lives: The 6 Health Benefits of Volunteering”, offers this information:

• Volunteering decreases the risk of depression, especially for persons 65 and older.  Volunteering increases social interaction and boosts support systems based on common interests, helping to lower isolation and depression.
• Volunteering gives a sense of purpose and teaches valuable skills. Volunteers perform critical roles here at the Bird House like food preparation, house cleaning, grocery shopping, etc., that assist the staff, families, and guests. The work of volunteers is essential to the daily activity of the Bird House!
• Volunteering helps keep people physically and mentally active. Volunteers report physical health and better life satisfaction due to time spent volunteering than those who do not.
• Volunteering may reduce stress levels. Volunteering may help to lower stress because doing something for others increases self-worth and raises spirits, helping to reducing anxiety and stress.
• Volunteering may help us live longer. People who volunteer tend to have less chronic pain or serious illness and often live longer.  Mortality rates may be lower for persons who are long time volunteers.
• Volunteering helps you meet others and develop new relationships. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people and to learn new things!  At the Bird House, you can work with other volunteers, staff, families, and guests, making friends as you work together.

With these benefits, it is a great time to be a volunteer!  If you haven’t signed up recently, take a moment and sign up to spend some time at the volunteer—you will be glad you did!!
Reference:
Mayo Clinic (5/18/2017). Retrieved from:  http://mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/helping-people-changing-lives-the-6-health-benefits-of-volunteering
Article posted by:
Rebecca Carver is the Family and Volunteer Coordinator at the Bird House. Prior to coming tot the Bird House, Rebecca was a chaplain with Iowa City Hospice for 13 years. When she isn't working, Rebecca is either knitting, playing violin for one of the musicals in town or taking care of her 3 year old grandson.

​