Volunteering is the most fundamental act of citizenship and philanthropy in our society. It is offering time, energy and skills of one’s own free will. It is an extension of being a good neighbour, transforming a collection of houses into a community, as people become involved in the improvement of their surroundings and choose to help others. By volunteering volunteers gain skills, self esteem and change their lives. People work to improve the lives of their neighbours and, in return, enhance their own.

What are the Benefits of Volunteering?

Volunteers give freely of their time and expertise in order to make a difference.

Volunteering can help you:

• make important networking contacts
• learn and develop skills
• gain work experience
• build self esteem and self confidence
• improve health
• help you meet new people
• feel needed and valued
• make a difference in someone’s life
• express gratitude for help you may have received in the past from an organization

Whether it is important to you to solve a community problem, advance a worthy cause or to develop as a person, volunteering offers many benefits in appreciation for the gift of your time and expertise.