It’s National Volunteer Week 2024, here at globalbridge it’s got us thinking about the wide variety of activities we’ve volunteered at over the years. A quick survey shows what a highly eclectic workforce we have!!!
Judge for First Lego League (we’re all a bit jealous of this opportunity!)
Race Steward (running, bikes, and cars)
Musician
Conservation work (trees being planted and beaches cleaned of ghost nets)
Church youth group
Sports coaching (swimming, cricket, rugby, skiing etc)
School Governor
Charity Trustee
Charity Treasurer
Teaching English abroad
Cleaning at an animal sanctuary
Mentoring vulnerable young people
Baking and selling cakes and sweets for charities
Helping to build schools abroad
Open water dip leader… the list went on some more!
And that’s on top of the day to day volunteering we all do when offering to help run a neighbour to an appointment or pick up an item from the shops for a friend. Volunteering serves various personal, social, and professional purposes, contributing to individual growth and community development. Here are some key points:
1. Personal Growth and Fulfilment
Volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment by contributing to causes one is passionate about. It allows individuals to develop and refine skills, such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Engaging in volunteer work can reduce stress, combat depression, and keep individuals physically active.
2. Social Impact
Community Strengthening: Volunteering helps build stronger, more connected communities by addressing local needs and fostering cooperation.Support for Nonprofits: Many charitable organisations rely on volunteers to carry out their activities, making volunteer contributions essential for their operations. Social Awareness: It increases awareness and understanding of societal issues, promoting empathy and compassion.
3. Professional Development
Volunteering can expand your professional network, opening doors to new job opportunities and career advancements. Including volunteer experience can enhance your digital profile (CV) and job applications by demonstrating commitment, initiative, and a well-rounded character. It provides a chance to explore different fields and industries, helping you make informed career choices.
4. Civic Responsibility
Volunteering is a way to actively participate in and give back to society, fulfilling civic duties and responsibilities. Volunteers can advocate for and drive positive changes in policies and practices within their communities and beyond.
Overall, volunteering benefits both the volunteer and the community, creating a reciprocal relationship where personal satisfaction and societal improvement go hand in hand. Thank you to all of the everyday superheroes out there, giving their time to make a difference in the world. Be the change you wish to see - volunteer today!
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