Benefits of Volunteering at the YMCA
The YMCA of Greater Cincinnati relies on volunteers to positively impact individuals, families, and groups within your local neighborhoods. Volunteerism allows you a sense of accomplishment while supporting the larger community. Why should you volunteer? Learn more about the many benefits below.
Make New Friends
The YMCA relies on an extensive network of volunteers to support your community. When you join those volunteers, you meet a growing group of people working hard to improve your neighborhoods and the quality of life for those who live there. In other words, people who are just as passionate about the same things you are!
Improve Your Health
Volunteers are very active in their community and have access to its resources, allowing you to improve your health in various ways. The Mayo Clinic reports that volunteering gives you a sense of purpose, knowing that your actions are appreciated, which can reduce stress and improve mood and cognitive function.
Learn Valuable Life Lessons
Young or old, there is always something to learn about life. Whether you learn how to lead a fitness class or assist with fundraising efforts, you can experience new things, all while serving your community. Getting to know people nearby can be enlightening, exposing you to generations or cultures different from your own.
Gain Self-Esteem and Confidence
When you volunteer within your community and find your work appreciated by others, you gain a new sense of accomplishment and self-confidence. You learn to believe in your unique skills and feel more comfortable speaking to and working with others. Meeting people or becoming a leader may not feel so intimidating.
Network Within Your Community
Networking is more important now than ever, but it must extend beyond social media and into our local communities. Knowing your local government officials, business owners, law enforcement, teachers and neighbors brings everyone together. It also gives you, and them, a support system of reliable people they can trust when needed.
Develop Professional Skills
All of the benefits mentioned above can be applied to work skills. Volunteering may teach you the soft skills needed to be successful in any paid position, such as time management, communication, organization, and teamwork. If you are looking for a specific type of position in the future, volunteering at the YMCA may be a great way to gain hands-on experience.
Boost Your Resume
As you develop these professional skills, don’t forget to add them to your resume. You should also add your time as a volunteer. This shows potential employers that you went above and beyond for your community and that you have experience beyond what can be taught in the classroom or a paid position. You also did this with no stated obligations.
Make a Difference!
The most important reason to join the YMCA as a volunteer is to directly impact the lives of the people closest to you. They may be people you know or don’t know, but they live within your community. Knowing that you support them and make a positive difference in their lives is one of the most motivating benefits of volunteering at the YMCA.
Learn more about volunteer opportunities at the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati, who is eligible to volunteer, and how to sign up. We know you will enjoy these many benefits and more as you work to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us.