Volunteering good for the world and the soul

I didn’t know much about volunteering growing up. As far as I was concerned, the only volunteers that existed were the ones I saw on television handing out food at homeless shelter soup kitchens or on the news passing out water at local fun runs.

As I got older, the face of volunteering underwent a drastic change. I came to realize my parents had done a certain amount of it themselves at my schools or by offering their specialized skills to people for free.

My grandparents were devoted givers of their time, committing themselves to a myriad of causes too varied to recount.

It’s only in the last few years that I’ve understood the true value of volunteering, and realized that I feel more in control, more notivated, more focused — and happier — when I do.

As much as I wish I souned more magnanimous, I often wonder who is really reaping the reward of my presence.

Something I wish was discussed more in schools from an early age is the importance of connecting with something outside of yourself. Yes, most high schools require some form of community service, but it’s usually carried out by sullen-eyed teenagers who sign up for the quickest, easiest option.

We don’t talk enough about how many organizations out there do great work, and need help to keep doing it. So many of the services and groups we admire depend on a solid core of volunteers to function. Without them, programs at many local food banks, libraries, museums and retirement homes would not exist.

Growing up, I didn’t realize the length and breath of local volunteer opportunites in my neighborhood, let alone my city.

Show me a subject you’re passionate about, and I’ll show you an organization or non-profit championing it.

Love animals? Local shelters and humane societies are always looking for dog walkers and cat cuddlers.

Passionate about affordable housing? There are dozens of coalitions you can join to make a difference.

Volunteering for your child’s PTA, hobby or chosen sport counts, too — and is good for everyone involved.

Of course, there are the material benefits of your contribution. Tax deductions spring to mind. But it’s the intangible things that leave a lasting impact.

Get kids started volunteering early, and you’re teaching them empathy from an young age. It might be a way to engage with a distant teenager or reconnect with an aging parent.

I think most people would like to think of themselves as a good person. Most of us have impressive plans for what our philanthropy and community service would look like if only we just had a little more time.

We’d save the whales, donate to orphanages and personally escort baby sea turtles from the beach to the ocean if only we didn’t have to work so much, or if we made more, of if...if... if.

Oscar Wilde said the smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention, and that still rings true. It’s not time or money that makes a difference in volunteering. It’s the committment.

Even if all you can give is an hour a month, if you can commit to being present and helping do something — anything! — you’ll be doing yourself and your community a favor.

Shannen Talbot can be reached at [email protected].