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:

  1. Determine what would compel you to become a volunteer.
  2. Determine what kinds of organizations you may want to volunteer with in your community.
  3. Determine what are your strongest skills you bring to an organization.
  4. Determine how much time you have in your schedule to realistically commit to your volunteer efforts.
  5. Most importantly, do it with Chrestotes in your actions and your attitude!