Volunteering Boosts Morale

With today's struggling economy, many organizations have had to close its doors. Not only has this shut down once prospering businesses, it has left an abundance of people out of work. If this describes you, you may be experiencing anxiety and even depression. Why not put some of your newly found free time into making the world a better place. Volunteer work helps the community, and provides you with the satisfaction of making a difference.

If you enjoy animals, contact a local animal shelter. Shelters and rescue facilities count on volunteers to keep their business in operation. Opportunities often include cage cleaning, animal grooming, even assisting at fund raising events. If this is not of interest, are you able to open up your home to foster an animal? Fostering means that you provide animal care until the animal(s) is ready to return to the shelter. Fostering is particularly needed for ill animals, or for new mothers and her babies.

Would you like to make a difference in a child's life? The Big Brother/Big Sister program always needs volunteers. By just spending time with a child you make a difference in their lives. Whether it be playing board games or assisting with homework, just your presence shows the child that you care about them. You have the option of specifying the type of child you would like to work with, and the company matches you up accordingly.

If you don't have the desire to work with children, how about volunteering at your local senior citizen center or nursing home. Seniors are often lonely and will truly enjoy your company. You may also be needed to assist with personal care including feeding.

Hospitals are always in need of volunteers. You will be given the opportunity to work in an area in which you're comfortable. Tasks may include direct patient care, delivering flowers, providing clerical support, working in the gift shop, and even assisting at health fairs.

Would you like to work outdoors? Habitat for Humanity is a wonderful way to get fresh air and help a family get their new home. No experience is needed and tasks vary from painting and decorating to more involved activities including plumbing and electrical work. Do you have unused furniture, appliances or workshop materials that you don't need? If you do, consider donating them to Habitat. Your gift will be appreciated and it is tax deductible.

Volunteering your time and energy does not cost money. Why not spend a few hours a week to make the world a better place? Together, we can make a difference.