Question: Why Volunteer?
Answer: Because research has shown that people who volunteer are happier and healthier!
A growing body of research indicates that volunteering provides not just social benefits, but health benefits as well. People who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not volunteer. And...Older volunteers are the most likely to receive physical and mental health benefits from their volunteer activities!
The Greek philosopher Aristotle once surmised that the essence of life is “To serve others and do good.” If recent research is any indication, serving others might also be the essence of good health.
Besides helping others, research
shows that people who volunteer:
• Make a positive difference
• Have higher self-esteem
• Learn new skills and interests
• Develop strong friendships
• Gain a sense of belonging
• Encourage others to “pay it forward”
The following resources provide information about the health benefits of volunteering:
Helping People, Changing Lives: 3 Health Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteers make an immeasurable difference in people's lives and often serve with the intention of helping others. But volunteering can benefit your health, as well! Research has shown that volunteering offers many health benefits, especially for seniors. Information from the Mayo Clinic...read more
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Volunteering and its Surprising Benefits
Volunteering offers vital help to people in need, worthwhile causes, and the community, but the benefits can be even greater for you, the volunteer. Volunteering and helping others can help you reduce stress, combat depression, keep you mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose. Information from HelpGuide.org in collaboration with Harvard Health Publications...read more
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The Health Benefits of Volunteering: A Review of Recent Research
Older individuals who volunteer demonstrate greater health benefits than do younger volunteers, due in part to the fact that volunteer activities by older individuals are more likely to provide them with a purposeful social role. This report summarizes the impressive findings from a number of studies that have explored the relationship between volunteering and health. Information from the Corporation for National and Community Service...read more
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5 Surprising Health Benefits of Volunteering
Find out 5 ways volunteering can have a positive impact on your life — both physically and mentally. Then, get up off the couch and lend a helping hand in your community. It just might prolong your life! Information from the Summa Health Care system...read more
Want to Volunteer for Neighborhood Falmouth?​
While research has shown that people who volunteer are happier and healthier, we often hear that volunteering for Neighborhood Falmouth has unique benefits and rewards.​ Neighborhood Falmouth’s flexible scheduling system makes it easy for volunteers to sign-up for assignments based on their availability and interests.
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Our volunteers often tell us that they volunteer because they wish an organization like Neighborhood Falmouth had been around when their parents were aging. Some volunteer so that NF will be here when they need it. Some volunteers are new to town and want to learn the area and its residents better. And some are retirees who are glad they finally have time to give back to their community. Whatever your reasons, we’re glad to have you! Visit the Neighborhood Falmouth Volunteer Page to learn more.
