In these fast-paced, busy and economically difficult times, it can be hard to think about finding time to volunteer. However, do not be discouraged by the challenges, the benefits of volunteering are enormous for everyone – you, your family and your community. Volunteering makes a great contribution in efforts to reduce poverty in your community, strengthens social connections and serves to develop a more humane and secure society. On more individual level, it can help you make new friends, reach out to the community, develop new skills and even boost your career.

Volunteerism fosters governance
Volunteerism delivers impressive social benefits. Through voluntary action, people create groupings that can cement social norms and inculcate a sense of civic responsibility and belonging. The participatory aspect of volunteerism can also contribute to a heightened understanding of the forces which shape governments and societies, leading to greater transparency, accountability and improved governance.

Volunteerism connects communities
Volunteering fosters opportunities for participation by people from diverse backgrounds and from a very wide range of circumstances. A recent study on volunteerism in Bosnia and Herzegovina showed that volunteering has significant influence on overcoming social divisions and distances, and reducing prejudices. For example, it has been found that volunteers are more inclined to interact with groups of different ethnic origin and across communities.

Volunteering has important economic impact
Volunteering also has the potential to contribute to economic growth at the community and national level. Studies undertaken by the Johns Hopkins Centre for Civil Society have estimated the economic value of the overall non-profit sector at an average of 5% of a country’s Gross Domestic Product. On an individual level, volunteerism contributes to capacity building processes by helping the individual volunteer to develop marketable skills, providing access to workplace networks and boosting confidence and self-esteem.

Volunteering is good for the mind, body and soul
Volunteering is a brilliant way to get life experience. Fundamentally, it is about giving your time, energy and skills freely.  Unlike many things in life there is choice involved in volunteering. As a volunteer you have made a decision to help on your own accord, free from pressure to act from others.  Volunteers predominantly express a sense of achievement and motivation, and this is ultimately generated from a desire and enthusiasm to help. Not only it is good for your self-confidence, but it also helps you stay physically healthy.

Volunteering can boost your career
Volunteering is the perfect vehicle to discover something you are really good at and develop a new skills. If you are thinking of a career change, then volunteering is a perfect way to expand your work portfolio in your current field and/or explore new fields while gaining new insights and experiences.

Volunteering increases your employability, as it allows you to gain practical knowledge and practice in a particular field. It also offers an incredible networking opportunity. Not only will you develop lasting personal and professional relationships, but it is also a great way to learn about people from all walks of life, different environments, and new industries.