Five Unexpected Benefits of Volunteering as a Family

November 16, 2018

by Olivia Thoelke

During the holidays, families are in a whirlwind of parties, travel plans, and activities.  While it’s easy to get caught up in this time of year, it’s also a great time to for your family to take advantage of one of the many opportunities to give back to your community.    This year make volunteering a family affair. You know the “feel-good” emotions that come with helping others, but there are even more unexpected ways volunteering will positively affect the whole family:  

You’ll feel like you have more time 

People often feel they are too busy to volunteer. Yet, a surprising finding by the Harvard Business Review saw that giving your time to community causes actually makes you feel like you have more of it. Volunteering makes us feel capable and efficient, inspiring us to make the most of each day.   

Volunteering has a life-long effect on kids and teenagers 

Volunteering during adolescence has been linked to some major positive effects such as improved grades, reduced drug usage, and a boosted self-esteem. Engaging your teen or pre-teen in volunteering can really help during these teen years. These effects aren’t just short-term but have been proved to affect their well-being in the years to come.  

You can live longer if you volunteer regularly  

For adults, volunteering can provide significant physical health benefits. Washington University found that for adults 55 and older who volunteered had better stamina, memory, and maintained overall health longer than others their age. Volunteers are also more likely to look after their own health and are more focused on adding physical activity into their lives.   

More time spent with family 

Families have a packed calendar during the holiday season. Between finals at school, holiday work parties, and endless hours shopping, it can be difficult to find time spent together. Families who volunteer together have the unique experience of working toward a shared goal. You may even learn that your child has a talent or interest you didn’t know about before. Everyone brings something unique to the table and can connect with each other and the community in a new way.  

You’ll be happier 

While the holidays are without a doubt one of the most enjoyable times of the year, they can also be one of the most stressful! The University of Texas found in a 2003 study that becoming involved in helping your community lowers rates of depression and anxiety. By volunteering, the entire family can benefit from bettering their mental wellness and alleviate some of the post-holiday blues.