3 things you’ll be amazed to know about volunteering

When it comes to volunteering, many people believe the benefits boil down to feeling warm and fuzzy after helping someone in need. It turns out that the impact and benefits of volunteering are far more than imagined. You will be amazed to know that …
1. Volunteering keeps you young
Not only does volunteering help a neighbor in need, but studies show it may also improve mental and physical health. Especially for older adults, research has shown that volunteering leads to lower rates of depression and wards off loneliness. A recent study by Carnegie Mellon University, published in Psychology and Aging magazine, showed adults over 50 who volunteered on a regular basis were less likely than non-volunteers to develop high blood pressure, a key indicator to heart disease, stroke and premature death. Volunteering also helps you look outside yourself and your problems, allowing you to see things in a new perspective. This makes us grateful for what we have.
2. Volunteering can be tailored to your passions
The thought of volunteering conjures up images of soup kitchens, food banks and sorting donated items. This may not motivate you or fit with your schedule. You may be surprised to know that many charities will tailor a volunteer opportunity based on your skills and passions. Charity work actually requires a wide variety of people doing a variety of things to meet the needs of others.
3. Volunteering leaves a legacy
Not only can you meet new people and expand your network, but volunteering can leave a legacy of giving that will be remembered by many. The impact on those in need that you help will be remembered. You may be amazed at how simply sharing a volunteer experience impacts others and motivates them to also make the world a better place.
“My wife is perplexed. She didn’t know what I was going to do after retirement. But I’ve managed to stay very busy. I love being friendly and open to people, and letting them know that there is a joy in living
-Larry Beardsley, 75
volunteer for Gabriel House, Marisol Homes, Archdiocesan Housing and more
“I’m blessed that I can travel to these cool places and that I can give back. We all have the same 24 hours and you have to choose what to do with it. I recommend that others find their passion. That’s how you’ll want to give back.”
-Diane Hoffman, 55, who owns a bed and breakfast business
volunteer cook and instructor at Guadalupe Community Center
“It’s been very rewarding. I know I’m building a legacy here, and I know we’re helping to get women and children off the street. For many years in the future families will live here, and I’ll know that I’ve been a part of that.”
-Paul Camp, member of Light of the World Parish in Littleton
Volunteer for Marisol Homes and Samaritan House
Online Event: Kyle Dyer Shares Real Stories. Real Emotion. Real Community.On July 17, Kyle Dyer, former 9News TV anchor, will host our premier live event to share the stories of supporters like you who have experienced firsthand the feeling of helping the most vulnerable in need across northern Colorado. Join us for our monthly interactive live events, where you will hear real stories, real emotion, and real community from those who have engaged with Catholic Charities’ services—whether they’ve received help, volunteered, or shown their support. Events will take place over the phone and online where you can ask questions and interact right along with us as these stories unfold. Our premier online interactive event on July 17th will highlight our "boots on the ground"—our volunteers—who tirelessly work to serve our community. |
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