Volunteers

By Don Posh

Where would we be without volunteers? Wisconsin data from 2021 had 1,165,782 volunteers contribute 72.5 million hours of service, with 24.9% of residents providing volunteer service worth an estimated $2 billion. That doesn’t take into account the random acts of kindness that occur every day. Volunteers make this world a better place, Thank you so much for your selfless contribution!

 There are reasons we may find that we are not happy with having too much time on our hands. Accidents or diagnoses can force us into disability, we can retire and feel a missing sense of purpose, and we may have had our retirement plans altered by the loss of a partner. After a life of demands for our skills suddenly ends, we’re cast into the void.

 Filling the void by volunteering may be just what the doctor ordered. There are benefits that come from volunteering. A volunteer often gets back more than they give in health benefits. Increased stamina, lower cholesterol, decreased anxiety and depression, socialization and a sense purpose a longer life. You will likely meet others with the similar interests and create new friendships. Only 2-4 hours per week can give back to you while you’re sharing your time and abilities.

 The opportunities to volunteer are endless. The best thing to do is to find which will fit your passion and skills. The benefits to serving locally is that you get to see the results in your own community. If you don’t find something locally, you can try the United Way, Just Serve or Volunteer Match. These organizations will match your skills and preferences with a needy organization. I recently read an article about a group of retired contractors help to install grab bars and work on small home repair projects in a WI county. They started their own volunteer program, what’s in your future?

Be well…We’re all in this Together!