One of the most rewarding hobbies to take part in is volunteering. It’s a way to give back to our communities, meet new people, and stay active. However, it can sometimes be a daunting thing to get involved in. After all, where should you start?
To help you get involved with volunteering, we have put together this quick guide.
The Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering can have a range of benefits for everyone involved, regardless of age or background. For people who have retired, volunteering can become a particularly rewarding experience. Amongst the most important benefits of volunteering is the boost in activity.
Many retirees can adopt more sedentary lifestyles in later life. Whilst this may feel relaxing, it can have a negative impact on physical health. Mental health can also take a hit. A lack of activity can contribute to the development of serious health complications. Many forms of volunteering encourage mobility.
A further benefit of volunteering is the time spent with other people. Loneliness is a major problem amongst the UK’s ageing population and can have serious mental health consequences. Volunteering offers an opportunity to meet new people, including people with similar interests and passions. Moreover, volunteering will help boost your confidence as you try new things and learn new skills.
Where to Volunteer
There are many organisations looking for volunteers. Charities, especially, are always looking for people to get involved, but that’s not all that’s available. You could help children who need extra tuition, for example, or look after animals waiting for a forever home.
One of the most important factors is finding something you’re passionate about. This is sure to give you that extra bit of encouragement to get out there and volunteer.
Here are just a few examples of volunteering options.
Charity Shops
Many of us love visiting a charity shop to pick up some bargains and support a good cause at the same time. Of course, charity shops are nothing without the people who work there. They sort through donations, place them on the shelves, and offer you a warm greeting as you walk in. What’s to stop you from being that person yourself? By volunteering at your local charity shop, you will meet new people every day and help raise funds for your chosen charity.
Animal Shelter
We are a nation of animal lovers. Whether you own your own pet or not, you can provide some love and care to the animals at your local shelter. Many of them are waiting for a new owner to come and choose them, but until then they still deserve attention and good care. Whilst volunteering at an animal shelter won’t consist solely of cuddles with cute critters, you will be keeping them happy and healthy until someone else takes over.
Fun Runs
Volunteering doesn’t have to be a long-term thing. Sometimes events come around that need some extra hands to help things run smoothly. At a fun run, volunteers are needed to help racers sign up, collect donations, and provide water to the runners along the route. Supporting a fun run by volunteering is a great way to get involved even if you aren’t much of a runner yourself. You’ll meet all sorts of people and have a good laugh in the process, too.
Tutoring
As we go through life, we pick up on lots of valuable information. None of that should go to waste, so tutoring can be a great option for retirees interested in volunteering. Many children and teenagers across the UK need extra support with their studies that they may not always have access to in school.
How to Volunteer
For anyone looking to get involved in volunteering, the good news is that opportunities are everywhere. Charity shops will post vacancies in their windows or on job sites, as will other organisations. However, there are other ways to find volunteering opportunities.
Do IT and Volunteering Matters both list opportunities on their sites and give guidance for finding places to get involved. You can also find a local Volunteer Centre, which will list opportunities in your area.
A quick internet search can also help you find places to volunteer. Simply search “volunteering near me”, or specify your postcode or area. This will show local opportunities or places that can direct you to volunteer work.
Safety and Reassurance from LifeConnect24
Volunteering is a great way to help others, but it’s also important to take care of yourself. With a personal alarm from LifeConnect24, you benefit from 24/7 reassurance throughout your home and garden.
To find out more about the LifeConnect24 alarm service, read our guide or view our products. If you have any questions about our alarms, or to order today, please do not hesitate to call on 0800 999 0400 and our team will be happy to help.
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