V – Volunteering (New)

V – Volunteering

Why consider volunteering?

There is a growing body of research that indicates volunteering provides mental, physical, and social benefits to all individuals. Those whose lives are being transformed by grief and trauma may choose to channel their pain and struggle into a process of helping others who are on the same journey; take a break from their own pain by assisting with people with a completely different set of life circumstances; or organize a group, class, foundation, or nonprofit organization geared toward bettering the world in some way. Volunteering time, energy, resources, knowledge, and life experience help both the giver and receiver.

How does volunteering promote healing?

• By providing a sense of purpose when life seems out of control
• By increasing community connections and social interactions
• By boosting self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction
• By promoting physical and emotional health and well-being

Resources

Articles

Organizations

Books

Websites

  • Network for Good – Search for volunteer opportunities that match your interests and geographic location, or search for an organization by name. Keep a record of all your volunteer activity to keep a private journal of your volunteer time and your experiences.

How can you integrate volunteering into your healing journey?