According to Lifespan.org when you volunteer you are giving something back to your community by lending a helping hand to people and organizations. What you may not realize is that volunteering also benefits you as an individual. See below for a list of some of the benefits of volunteering:
- Make new friends
- Explore career and personal interests
- Earn great recommendations for future employment or college applications
- Develop marketable job skills
- Build your resume
- Enrich your education
- Uncover hidden skills and talents
- Increase your self-confidence
- Have fun
- Make a difference
Read the article Why Volunteer by Susan J. Ellis of Energize, Inc.
See what real teens just like you are saying about volunteering at this interactive blog. Click here to read other opinions and voice your own.
The following three books are great reads to get you started on volunteering and fueling your passion for helping others. They all have great sections on why you should take time out to make your community and the lives of others better! Click on the title of the book to learn more or purchase a copy for yourself.
Volunteering: The Ultimate Teen Guide
By: Kathlyn Gay
By: Preston Galla
The Teen Guide to Global Action: How to Connect with Others to Create Social Change
By: Barbara A. Lewis