Volunteering is a rewarding experience that not only provides benefits for the wider community but also yourself. We know that without volunteers our communities would not have been able to tackle the challenges that they have faced over the last few years.

So why should you become a volunteer? At W3RT, we know there are lots of different reasons as to why you might want to volunteer so we have highlight just a few below.

  1. Volunteering is good for you!

From your physical health to your mental health and wellbeing, we cannot think of many things that are as good for you as volunteering. It is well known that keeping active, mentally as well as physically, has a powerful influence over our health and wellbeing and statistics from NCVO stated that:

  • 77% of people felt that their mental health and wellbeing had improved as a result of volunteering.
  • 74% of people felt volunteering gave them more confidence.
  • 53% of people felt that their physical health had improved as a result of volunteering.
  • Therefore, instead of signing up for the gym or attending chilly park runs in the Winter, consider volunteering, and give your physical and mental health a boost this year!

 

  1. Volunteering is good for your community!

Our local charities and community groups are on the front line, responding to every crisis and challenge that our community faces. From the Covid19 pandemic to the ongoing Cost of Living crisis, it is our charities and community groups that are ensuring:

  • Foodbanks can support families in need of emergency food parcels.
  • Ensuring isolated individuals can get to hospital appointments or social clubs.
  • Supporting individuals with advice and guidance, whether that is about money, debt, employment, or support in and around their family.

Without volunteers, our communities would not be able to respond to these crises and in 2024 these challenges will continue. Therefore, if you can, consider volunteering as your opportunity to give back to the community so we can continue to support those in need.

  1. Volunteering is good for your future!

Whether you are looking to get your first job, restart your career or just learn a new skill, volunteering is a great way to develop the skills you need to make the best out of your future. The training and hands-on experience you gain while volunteering can help you learn new skills as well as build upon ones you already have.

For example, if you advocate and raise awareness or funding for a cause that interests you, you’ll gain valuable communication, public speaking, marketing, and other hard and soft skills. You can then put these skills on your CV to show employers how you build relationships outside of work in addition to any personal interests that can set you apart from other candidates.

 

 

 

How to Start Volunteering?

If you are ready to start your volunteering journey, we believe that there is no better place to start finding volunteering opportunities than Go Vol Herts.

Go Vol Herts has a free and easy-to-use online platform that allows you to search for volunteering opportunities that match your skills and interests. If you want to start your volunteer journey for the first time or to find a new and exciting volunteering opportunity, click here and check out some of the opportunities that are available near you.