Blue Cares is all about giving back to the community. As police officers, we want to serve and protect San Antonio and that means more than just fighting crime and keeping the streets safe. It means helping children and families build a life that allows them to live, work, and play, safely and happily. It could be help with meals, scholarship opportunities, or even holiday presents. It can mean just about anything that helps our community grow.
To achieve our goals, Blue Cares needs volunteers. Whether its one-hour or ten, every minute you can help us give back to the community is truly appreciated. We can do more together and we are asking for your support.
With that in mind, here is a little blog on the benefits of volunteering! Read it and join us when you have the time.
“It’s better to give than to receive” . . . this old adage is true after all. And it doesn’t matter whether you donate time or money. A Gallup survey on volunteering in the U.S.A. found that 52% of volunteers do it because they like doing something useful and helping others. Another 38% said they enjoy doing volunteer work and feeling good about themselves. Did you know that besides these benefits, volunteering is also good for your physical health? A Canadian study showed that 85% of volunteers rated their health as “good,” compared to 79% of non-volunteers. And other studies have shown an increase self-esteem, indicating greater personal empowerment. Medically, doing for others may stimulate endorphins which have been linked to a stronger immune system as well. Emotionally, many people report a “high” from volunteering, going as far as to report an decrease in depression.
If this isn’t proof enough, try these seven reasons to volunteer:
- Develop new skills. Honing new skills and expertise is a side-effect of volunteering. The experience can spice up your resume and your career.
- Make social connections. Loneliness and boredom are common among those who are retired, new community members and even students. By volunteering you can make new friends and gain a sense of purpose.
- Give back to your community. Every citizen, whether rich or poor, benefits from their community in some way. Returning the favor to those who have helped you is always a strong inspiration.
- Develop and grow as a person. Getting to know your community is a great way to explore your interests. You may find a completely new field is a better fit for you.
- Gain a new perspective. Sometimes life can get you down and your own problems can take on a life of their own. Volunteering can really help you gain a new perception.
- Know that you’re needed. Everyone needs to feel needed and appreciated, whether they are getting paid or not. Getting to know people and organizations that need your help is a strong incentive to continue. 7. Boost your self-esteem. You will feel an increased self-worth and good feeling from helping those who need it.
(source: SparkPeople)