If you’ve ever volunteered, you likely know the incredible sense of fulfilment that follows. You leave with a full heart, a lifted spirit, and a deeper connection to your community. Volunteering offers a glimpse into what’s possible when people unite for a greater good.
At Ascend Nonprofit & Business Solutions (Ascend NBS), we believe in the power of people, especially volunteers, to make a lasting impact. Whether you’re supporting a local food pantry or helping a nonprofit apply for grant funding, your time and talent matter.
Here are seven life-changing benefits of volunteering that might just inspire you to take the next step:
1. Strengthens Your Social Connections
Volunteering brings people together. It strengthens community ties and expands your social network, allowing you to build relationships not just with those you serve, but also with fellow volunteers. It’s a powerful way to meet like-minded individuals and form lasting friendships.
2. Helps Combat Loneliness
According to The Campaign to End Loneliness, nearly half of the people in the U.S. and the U.K. report feeling lonely. Volunteering offers a meaningful connection. It gives you a chance to interact with others, feel seen and valued, and be part of something bigger than yourself—all of which are antidotes to social isolation.
3. Supports Emotional Well-Being
Studies show that volunteering can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and low self-esteem. Helping others can foster a sense of purpose and boost your mood, creating a positive ripple effect in your mental health and overall outlook.
4. Encourages Physical Activity
Many volunteer opportunities involve movement and hands-on participation, from organizing community events to coaching youth sports or maintaining local parks. Volunteering helps you stay active, reduce stress, and minimize the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle.
5. Enhances Career Development
Volunteer experience is increasingly valued in the workplace. It demonstrates leadership, initiative, and a commitment to community. Adding volunteer work to your resume can highlight soft skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving—qualities that employers value.
6. Promotes Longevity and Better Health
Research from the Corporation for National and Community Service shows that people who volunteer over 100 hours a year experience improved health outcomes. These benefits include lower stress levels, reduced risk of chronic illness, and even increased lifespan.
7. Brings Joy and Meaning to Life
Beyond all the health and social perks, volunteering is fun and rewarding. Whether you’re delivering meals, mentoring youth, or helping a nonprofit write grants, the experience often brings joy, purpose, and a deep sense of contribution to your life.
Volunteering Benefits You and the World Around You
Volunteering is more than an act of kindness, it’s a powerful tool for personal growth, community building, and positive change. Nonprofits across the country depend on volunteers to expand their reach, amplify their missions, and deliver critical services.
If you’re ready to make new friends, support causes you care about, and create a lasting impact, now is the time to get involved.
At Ascend NBS, we support nonprofits and community change-makers by offering grant writing, research, compliance, and training services. If your organization is powered by volunteers and looking to grow, we’re here to help.
AscendNBS wants to be your grant writing ally for social change. Contact our team at info@ascendnbs.com or 210-610-2440 to learn more about how we support volunteer-driven organizations. Visit us at Ascendnbs.com to learn more.