National Volunteer Month, celebrated every April in the United States, is a dedicated time to honor the impact of volunteers and encourage community service. It highlights the essential contributions of volunteers to nonprofits and society, promoting civic engagement and fostering community strength.

Benefits of Volunteering

• In addition to helping others, volunteering can help you. When you volunteer, you can increase your community and social connections, reduce loneliness, and build a support network. 

• Depending on your volunteer activity, you can also increase your physical health and gain new skills. 

• Volunteering activates the production of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, which are mood enhancing hormones. 

• Helping others shifts focus away from your personal problems to the needs of others, which can lower your stress levels.

• By helping others, you can develop coping mechanisms that help you become more resilient. 
  
  

Getting Started

• Find something that you enjoy doing. For example, my daughter loves helping children, so she volunteers with the children’s ministry at church. Most churches have a variety of ministry areas that welcome volunteers.

• Our Memphis Public Libraries have extensive volunteer opportunities  that range from restocking books to helping with genealogy. I enjoy volunteering with jewelry making classes at a local library.

• Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, the United Way, and the Red Cross are other organizations that utilize volunteers to support their mission.

Volunteering is good for us and good for those we serve. Remember that Methodist EAP is here for you, whether you are discerning your next opportunity for service or navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges. Call us at 901-683-8558.

About the Author

LaNita Conley, LCSW
Behavioral Health Screener

LaNita Conley is a Licensed Master’s Social Worker. She received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Memphis. She has experience working with underprivileged families as a case manager and with the adult population while working as a medical social worker. She likes to spend her spare time with her family and experimenting in the kitchen.