Volunteering is a powerful way to make a difference in the world. The impact of volunteering can be life-changing for people in need of help. Your time and energy could mean a meal, a mentor, or even companionship to the people and causes most in need. Just a little effort can make a world of difference for someone who needs comfort, resources, or care.
Volunteering doesn’t just positively affect the people being helped. According to several studies, it changes the health and happiness of the volunteers, too. Here are some of the benefits volunteers have reported after two years of consistent volunteering:
- A stronger and more connected community
Volunteering connects people with similar passions, as well as other people in the community. Through impactful work, it can help strengthen existing relationships and build new ones. After one year of volunteering consistently, two thirds of older adults in the SeniorCorps division of Americorps reported a decrease in feelings of isolation. 67% of people who initially reported that they lack companionship stated that their social connections had improved.
- A sense of purpose
Volunteering gives people a hands-on way to improve the world around them. Building a community offers volunteers a unique opportunity to understand the challenges of others. It gives them a way to see the impact of their efforts directly. This increased sense of purpose can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and increase life satisfaction. It can also help volunteers positively reflect on their own life and experiences.
- Improved mental health
In the Americorps study, two-thirds of older adult volunteers who initially experienced three or more symptoms of depression reported fewer symptoms after one year of volunteering.
In addition to a positive outlook and sense of purpose, volunteering can offer higher self-esteem and satisfaction. Some older adults in the study found that their volunteer work gave them a sense of accomplishment and opportunities for personal growth.
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Check out some volunteer opportunities in Yakima County below!
Volunteering is a great way to make a difference in the world. It’s important to note that there are no time commitments to volunteering. You can volunteer as much or as little as you’d like while still making an impact in the areas you’re passionate about. Here are some opportunities for volunteering in the Yakima Valley area:
- Volunteer to organize, stock, and prepare food and help clients access items
- Organize a group volunteer project for your club or organizations
Safe Yakima Valley Mentoring Program
- Support, guide, and provide companionship for at risk youth in Yakima County
Volunteer Chore Services Program (through Catholic Family Charities)
- Provide basic assistance (like driving, yard work, housework, etc. as able) to low-income elders and adults with disabilities
- Deliver frozen meals to seniors who are homebound
- Assist in dining rooms to serve meals, prep food, or package meals
The Harman Center, a center dedicated to improving the lives of adults 50 and older
- Serve as a greeter, computer lab teacher, or class facilitator
- Assist the kitchen as a soup and sandwich server, breakfast crew member, or coffee barista
- Help fundraise or distribute the newsletters and flyers
Humane Shelter of Yakima or Yakima Valley Pet Rescue and Adoption Center
- Feed, help medicate, and clean up after animals
- Spend quality time with animals—walk dogs and play with cats
Volunteers are always needed. Find a cause you care about and search online for a local organization or local chapter. Check out even more volunteer opportunities on the Yakima Herald-Republic’s volunteer board.
