vol/un/teer/ism: (välənˈtirizəm) noun.
the policy or practice of volunteering one’s time or talents for charitable, educational, or other worthwhile activities, especially in one’s community.
THROUGHOUT THE COVID PANDEMIC, VOLUNTEERISM IS AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH IN THE UNITED STATES, AND US NON-PROFITS ARE REAPING THE ECONOMIC REWARDS!
Non-profits have shifted how services are delivered, volunteers are trained, and how volunteers can safely participate. Volunteers sense they have participated in something at a time of crisis giving them a feeling of solidarity enabling them to muddle through the often-devastating news delivered routinely by the media and through their own personal losses.
WHAT WOULD MOST COMPEL YOU TO BECOME A VOLUNTEER?
• Personal development?
• Breaking free from negative feelings?
• Social interactions? Feeling of solidarity?
• Learning new skills? Career enhancement?
• Expression of pro-social values?
• Religiosity or spirituality?
Religiosity and spirituality have significant bearing on volunteerism. There is an emphasis on pro-sociality and the benefits of benevolence towards those less fortunate than us. Those who are religious or spiritual tend to volunteer at a higher rate than those who are neither religious nor spiritual in nature.
Hebrews 4:16
Let us then draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in the time of need.
IMPORTANCE & BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING:
• Nurtures an active body and mind
• Combats depression
• Counteracts the effects of anxiety, anger, and stress
• Strengthens self-confidence
• Bestows a sense of purpose
• Generates a sense of fulfillment and belonging
• Creates bonds to new friends
• Improves social and relationship skills
• Can facilitate career advancement by learning valuable skills or gaining career experience in a new field
Kindness:
From the Greek, Chrestotes (khray-stot’-ace), meaning, morally, excellence in character and demeanor; as well as gentleness, goodness, and kindness. Chrestotes sustains an extensive presentation of excellence in conveying gentleness and kindness in all interpersonal relationships, as in the kindness embodied by Christ.
Galatians 5:22
…the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patient endurance, kindness, generosity, faith, mildness, and chastity.
ACTION STEPS:
- Determine what would compel you to become a volunteer.
- Determine what kinds of organizations you may want to volunteer with in your community.
- Determine what are your strongest skills you bring to an organization.
- Determine how much time you have in your schedule to realistically commit to your volunteer efforts.
- Most importantly, do it with Chrestotes in your actions and your attitude!