Volunteering can be defined as donating freely your time and service to an organization, your community, an individual or for a good cause.

Volunteering is for everyone, young or old! Some benefits of volunteerism include that is helps counteract the effects of stress, anger, anxiety and depression; makes you happy; increases self-confidence; and provides a sense of purpose.

How can you volunteer, especially during this time of COVID-19? Consider the following:

Call or text your neighbors (especially elderly neighbors) to make sure they’re doing okay and is there anything that they need.  Communities are coming together to create mutual aid networks where neighbors are able to post their needs—groceries, translation services, pharmacy runs, make rent payments, etc.

• Check out the internet and explore ways to connect and volunteer virtually.
• As the coronavirus continues to spread, it is expected that blood donations will decrease. The need for blood is constant, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need of transfusions.
• While many are hunkering down because of the CDC recommendations, millions of non-profit professionals are working to continue to deliver services and implement programs uninterrupted.  Make a donation to your favorite organization. Your dollars will make a difference.
• Be a leader by letting others know that you are staying safe at home with your family and work, as well as staying off public transportation, out of hospitals and just generally out of the way.  When restrictions are lifted, continue to practice the basic safety procedures for everyone’s benefited.
• Remember those on the frontline to whom we need to show our gratitude. Take time to consider how you might show your appreciation to grocery store clerks, domestic workers, nurses, doctors, police officers, firefighters, sanitation workers, delivery people, teachers who are educating virtually – and the list goes on.

Take care of yourself. Make sure to secure your own oxygen mask before assisting others or going in public places. Self-care is very important at a time like this.

If you really want to start volunteering, there’s no better time than now to do it. If you’re an experienced volunteer, get out there and keep up the good work. It’s people like you that make the world a better place.

Be the change you want to see in your own city, state, country or even the world. And remember, even if it’s just for a few hours, volunteering can make a huge difference in the lives of others.