This past Saturday, October 25th was National Make a Difference Day, and millions of people joined together to improve the lives of others. Sponsored by USA Weekend Magazine and Points of Light, this day is billed as the largest national day of community service. Which is wonderful but if you missed it, have no fear: you can make a difference EVERY DAY, not just on Make a Difference Day.
The opportunity to make a difference in this world often comes unexpectedly, as the result of a natural disaster; think hurricanes, earthquakes, or in response to movements like Make A Difference Day or the momentum of seasonal holidays such as Thanksgiving food drives and Adopt a Family programs. And when these occasions arise, the response is immediate. But many times the opportunity to make a difference exists in our own communities on a day to day basis.
It’s easy to forget that local fire departments are staffed entirely by volunteers; ambulance companies, libraries, schools and churches depend on volunteers to offer support and assistance. Local theater groups, State and County parks and recreation facilities offer volunteer-led programs and activities. Recognized charitable organizations, such as; Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, among many others, enhance the quality of life for those most in need. Each day, in the Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center’s Volunteer Department, telephone inquiries are received from people thinking about giving time and talent to help others. And who benefits from all this volunteerism? Perhaps, surprisingly, the answer is “everyone.”
The benefits of volunteering to the recipient are obvious, but the benefits to the volunteer are equally significant. In a study conducted by Carnegie Mellon University, adults aged 50+ who volunteered on a regular basis were less likely to develop high blood pressure than non-volunteers. And how does this happen? Performing volunteer work may increase physical activity among a less-active group, and volunteering is often linked to reduced stress. Other possibilities include the fact that volunteers report feeling satisfied and emotionally positive as a result of helping others. They report feeling a deeper connection to their communities, and are often more informed consumers. Volunteers also tend to be more involved in their health and take better care of themselves. Active, senior volunteers engaged in healthy volunteer activities—role models for teens and young adults—involved and committed citizens—it’s a win-win formula for making a difference…not just one day but every day.
So, look for a volunteer opportunity that you enjoy, and get to it. You won’t just be helping others—you’ll be helping yourself, as well. Gurwin offers volunteer opportunities of all kinds.
