So, what rewards are in store for the volunteer? Perhaps not the kind that people get from a personal hobby or a hotshot career, but are certainly never short of gratifying.
Volunteerism builds character. Programs like United Nations Volunteers program do a great job at tapping everyday heroes. Mobilizing thousands of volunteers every year, the UNV program believes volunteer work is empowering, both for the society and the individual partaking in it. Volunteers get to learn selflessness while they rebuild trust, solidarity, and mutual concern among the people they are helping.
Image Source: connectionstosuccess.org
Everybody can be a hero in volunteerism. Nobody is too young or too old to touch and transform lives, and no help is too big or too meager. Take the case of Justin Crell, who, back when he was in eighth grade, started raising thousands of dollars by selling stuffed teddy bears for children who cannot pay for a much-needed medical attention.
Image Source: medicarerights.org
Volunteer work is not all about gathering warm bodies, as common perception would have it. More than having a heart for making a difference, volunteers need skills to get things done. People may lend their skills and talents--cooking, singing, even blogging and social media marketing--as a way of showing they care. And the payback? Some volunteers are able to build on or sharpen their abilities, creating experiences worth including in their résumés.
Image Source: mashable.com
Starting at a young age, Justin Crell has been doing volunteer work for various nonprofit and community organizations. Visit this blog to know more about making a difference in the community.