The benefits of volunteering

Volunteering can be unique, exciting, and rewarding. 

Offering a service to the community opens the door to many opportunities. 

By being a part of a team, students can gain connections to help advance their careers. 

Plus, while volunteering, students are given the opportunity to interact with those who share common interests.

From connecting with others to gain new skills, freshman Grace Southerland said “When volunteering, you feel like you’re a part of a team who works together to give back. It also lets you learn new things from others.” 

Volunteering opportunities, such as helping out at the local library or becoming a crisis counselor, builds onto workforce skills.

Retired Air Force Veteran Russ Bledsoe said “The skills you learn through volunteering follow you throughout your life. It allows you to work and connect with those of different cultures.” 

Offering a service also has the perks of improving happiness and a decrease in stress, especially when working with animals.

Helping out at animal shelters or wildlife sanctuaries gives animals a second chance and a new start. 

Big Bend Wildlife Sanctuary volunteer Elizabeth Wilkins said “Working with animals has made me happy and feel like I’m giving back.” 

Volunteering along with the improvements of feeling more fulfilled, helps to strengthen the community and bring people together.

Through teamwork and newly developed skills, volunteering is a beneficial opportunity.