I’ve been a hospital volunteer for a number of years. In addition to finding it personally rewarding, I feel I’ve made a significant contribution there. I know: organizations, like hospitals, food banks, pet shelters, daycare centers, camps, etc. need more help to fill in for employees during summer vacation. Perhaps some encouraging words about volunteering would be beneficial for those who haven’t quite decided what to do with their spare time this summer. – Feeling Fulfilled

Dear Feeling Fulfilled,

We honor you for providing a needed and valuable service to your neighbors and the hospital where you work (yes, it’s “work”). Without volunteers like yourself, hospitals would have to hire additional people or staff would have to take on extra duties. It may seem like a “little thing” to refill water pitchers, work in the gift shop, push a wheelchair, etc. but it produces “big” results and rewards.

Volunteering isn’t just for those who are 65-plus who have “spare time” or are “retired.” I’m aware of a guy, currently unemployed and continuing his job search, who volunteers at a local food bank. He feels his efforts are helping his outlook on life and making a difference in his community.

Younger people, (teens-40s), can also benefit from volunteering. It can be invaluable to help gain some great skills and training. Volunteering gives them the ability to test out potential career paths. Employers recognize that potential job candidates or even their current employees who volunteer are more desirable. Studies show they have more initiative, better mental and physical health and a higher level of self-esteem and confidence. 

Medical research shows that these benefits are gained by less than 200 hours per year (three-to-four hours per week).  

1. Longer life (20% lower death rate)
2. Lower blood pressure and stress levels
3. Less depression
4. Improvement of brain function (really important as we age)
5. 25% better management of chronic illness
6. More physical activity
7. Higher functional abilities 
8. Long term friendships that develop with other volunteers
9. A greater sense of belonging and feeling loved
10. A heightened sense of purpose, happiness, and value

You and many others have also discovered the numerous physical, emotional and social health benefits of volunteering. A gentleman who was a hospital volunteer for over 25 years, said, “If I’m feeling unappreciated or deficient in my ‘hug quota’ for the day, all I have to do is show up at the hospital to know how greatly I’m valued and how much I’ve made a contribution.”

So as summer approaches, for those of you reading this response: please consider volunteering yourself, encourage your friends, neighbors, children and grandchildren to do the same, even for just those few summer months. It will be fulfilling to both you and the organization you serve.

Pastor Dabney Beck