The power of volunteering

Volunteers are the lifeblood of many not-for-profits and worthy causes, including Ardoch. However, as well as being an invaluable resource for important social causes, volunteering can be a very beneficial exercise for the volunteer.

If you are undecided on whether or not to put your hand up to give time to a cause you care about, consider some of the benefits of volunteering below:

You form connections
For those who are socially isolated, new to an area, or simply wanting to expand their social circle or network, volunteering is a great way to meet new, like-minded people from all walks of life.

You learn new skills
Volunteering is an opportunity to expand your skill base. Depending on the volunteering role you are filling, these new skills could range from anything from administration and organisation to expanding your communication skills. For those who are between jobs, studying, returning to the workplace after raising a family, or looking at stepping into a different career, volunteering can be a great opportunity to learn new skills that may be beneficial at your next workplace.

Volunteering also looks great on your resume because it demonstrates commitment and shows that you are a person who gives back. Volunteering is something that potential employers will usually look favourably upon for these reasons.

It can be beneficial for your health
Making a commitment to something, such as volunteering or joining a sporting team, is one way to stay mentally healthy. Volunteering can increase your confidence, your social circle and your sense of accomplishment. If you are doing something that you enjoy and that you know makes a difference, it makes you feel good and gets you out of the house. If volunteering involves doing something active, it can also end up encouraging some incidental exercise for you, which is good for your physical health. 

There is an option for almost everyone
There are so many causes looking for volunteers so you are sure to find a good fit, no matter your age, interests, location or the amount of time you have available to volunteer. Whether you want to work alongside animals or people, be a hands-on volunteer or volunteer your administrative skills, or if you want to volunteer every week or just once in a while, volunteering roles across different causes are many and varied.

You can improve your local community
No matter what type of volunteering role you take on, you are not only benefiting the people, children, animals or group that the cause aims to help – you are benefiting your community.

It’s not uncommon for a volunteer to stay that they feel they get as much from the giving of their time as the organisation which benefits from it!

If you would like to volunteer to help deliver one of Ardoch’s programs (or help through community fundraising or making a donation) please visit the Ardoch website for details here