Unexpected Benefits of Volunteering as a Family

Are you looking for a way to bring your family together? Hoping to find a hobby that can be shared by both the little ones and adults? ____1____ You may know the “feel-good” emotions that come with helping others, but there are even more unexpected ways volunteering will positively affect the whole family.

● You’ll feel like you have more time.

People often feel they are too busy to volunteer. Yet, research has found that giving your time to community causes actually makes you feel like you have more of it. ____2____

● You can live longer if you volunteer regularly.

____3____ Washington University found that adults 55 and older who volunteered had better memory and maintained overall health longer than others their age. Volunteers are also more likely to look after their own health and are more focused on adding physical activity into their lives.

● ____4____

Volunteering during teenage years has been linked to some major positive effects such as improved grades and increased self-confidence. These effects aren’t just short-term but have been proved to affect a teen’s well-being in the years to come.

● You’ll have more time with family.

Families who volunteer together have the unique experience of working toward a common goal. ____5____ Everyone brings something unique to the table and can connect with each other in a new way. And, there are tasks for every age and ability, so all your children can feel proud of their work. 

A. Helping the community lowers rates of depression.

B. Volunteering as a family may be just the thing you need.

C. Volunteering has a lifelong effect on kids and teenagers.

D. Volunteering can be the first step in breaking down prejudice.

E. For adults, volunteering can provide significant physical health benefits.

F. You may even learn that your kid has a talent you didn’t know about before.

G. Volunteering makes you feel capable and inspires you to make the most of each day.