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Inspiration

Giving a virtual helping hand

ne important sphere of activity impacted by help reduce stress and anxiety, largely due to the bene-
the COVID-19 pandemic has been volun- fits of getting people's minds off of their own difficulties
teerism. Thousands of people accustomed to for a time while also creating meaningful relationships
O showing up in person to tutor schoolchildren, with others. Also beneficial is that volunteers often gain
mentor budding entrepreneurs, staff information desks at a renewed sense of purpose, new perspectives on life and
hospitals, give tours of regional and national parks, etc., greater self-confidence.
are on hiatus for the time being.
Virtual volunteer opportunities abound
Temporary limits on life-affirming relief and assistance So lack of volunteer opportunities is a great loss. However,
have been difficult for those receiving aid, as well as those just as many of us have learned to work solo from home
providing it. It is difficult to remain patient about this, but and shine during virtual meetings and classes, we are
until enough people have been vaccinated, we still need to now taking advantage of remote volunteer opportunities.
restrict close contact with others outside of our immediate
circle. If you have the urge to serve others, here are several op-
tions to consider. You can:
It's easy to see the benefits recipients of services gain be-
cause they are typically spelled out in mission statements • Make masks for workers on the front lines
of organizations providing services. It's easier to forget • Check in daily to chat with a housebound senior citi-
how much good giving to others with no expectation of zen via Zoom
return does for those volunteering.
• Pick up groceries and other supplies for disabled peo-
Volunteering is good for you ple

Numerous benefits of volunteering have been document- • Become a virtual student mentor
ed in studies over the years. One is the connections vol- • Staff a crisis hotline remotely
unteers make: they not only help make their communities • Deliver meals for Meals on Wheels or similar initia-
better for others, they feel more connected and fulfilled in tives
the process. Volunteers also often make new friends and
expand their professional networks. • Record audio books for local schools or other educa-
tional organizations
Volunteering can also enhance friendships. In addition • Help scientists track the spread of COVID-19 through
to routine activities, friends who volunteer together for Outbreaks Near Me at https://outbreaksnearme.org/us/en-
a cause often strengthen their bonds by adding a new US/.
dimension to their relationship. The same holds true for
families that work together for a good cause. When picking your volunteer niche, check with groups in
your area to see where your skills and interests are a good
For people on the shy side, volunteering can help them match for your community's needs. The bottom line is that
strengthen their social skills and overcome resistance to doing good feels good, and that's an uplifting thing.
speaking up. It is also a great way for people new to the
workforce to gain skills that can become marketable when
mastered.

And that's not all. Volunteering has been documented to
Kate Gillespie, President and CEO
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