Benefits of volunteering for the volunteer

Go to the following site to read a very good article about the benefits of volunteering for the individual.

http://www.worldvolunteerweb.org/

Here is a summary......

Volunteering has a meaningful, positive impact on your community. But did you know that it can have many benefits for you too? Here are some reasons to volunteer:

1. Learn or develop a new skill 

For example, goal setting, planning and budgeting skills, or supervisory and training skills. The possibilities are many.  

2. Be part of your community
Volunteering is a good way to connect with your commmunity and give a little back.
3. Motivation and sense of achievement
Volunteering is about giving your time, energy and skills freely. Many volunteers express a sense of achievement and motivation.
4. Boost your career options
In a recent survey: 

• 73% of employers would recruit a candidate with volunteering experience over one without
• 94% of employers believe that volunteering can add to skills

Also, if you are thinking of a career change then volunteering is a perfect way to explore new fields.
5. New interests and hobbies
Finding new interests and hobbies through volunteering can be fun, relaxing and energizing. The energy and sense of fulfilment can carry over to your work situation.
6. New experiences
Volunteering is a brilliant way to get life experience. Through volunteering you will experience the real world through hands-on work.
7. Meeting a diverse range of people
Volunteering brings together a wide range of people from all backgrounds. Volunteering can be a rich source of inspiration and an excellent way to develop your interpersonal skills. 
Volunteering also offers an incredible networking opportunity. Networking is an exciting benefit of volunteering and you can never tell who you will meet or what new information you will learn and what impact this could have on your life.
8. Send a signal to your employer, teachers, friends and family…
Volunteering reflects and supports a complete picture of you, and gives real examples of your commitment, dedication and interests. Show people what you are passionate about and maybe you will inspire them too!

References:
Ten Professional Development Benefits of Volunteering (Everything I Learned in Life I Learned through Volunteering). Mary V. Merrill, LSW, Merrill Associates