Value of Volunteering 

It is better to give than to receive says the old adage but it really applies to volunteerism. There are countless ways to volunteer your time to help other people, support organizations in fulfilling their missions, or build community.

People volunteer for a variety of reasons – meet new people, contribute expertise, or simply give back to their community. Whatever the reason, we can agree that volunteers are important and highly valued for the work that they do.

Volunteering is at the heart of community building. It fosters relationships and brings a smile to millions of people’s faces every single day. It is even more important during the COVID-19 pandemic where many are isolated and alone.

Volunteering can take shape in wiping down tables and commonly used surfaces at polling stations in the wake of COVID-19 or preforming a song or other musical aspect for residents of a nursing home. Whatever the task, volunteering is crucial in spreading gratitude and helping things run smoothly.

The number of volunteers in the United States is estimated to be 63 million strong and the current estimated national value of each volunteer hour is $27.20. This estimate is by no means thorough enough to describe the work that volunteers do, but it does help to acknowledge the millions of volunteers who dedicate their time, energy, and talents to make a difference. This number serves as an important reminder that volunteering may be priceless, but it is not free.

In the nonprofit sector, volunteers are the backbone of an organization and are crucial in helping it run smoothly and effectively. Volunteers help keep the doors open and enable nonprofits to deliver vital services to a larger number of people.

Volunteerism is an intrinsic value that cannot be measured by money or hours, but instead through dedication and gratitude. Think about your personal interests and seek ways to apply those skills in volunteering.