a unified body of individuals: such as
a: the people with common interests living in a particular area
broadly : the area itself
b: a group of people with a common characteristic or interest living together within a larger
society
With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, the benefits of volunteering can be enormous. Volunteering offers vital help to people in need, worthwhile causes, and the community, but the benefits can be even greater for you, the volunteer. The right match can help you to find friends, connect with the community, learn new skills, and even advance your career.
Giving to others can also help protect your mental and physical health. It can reduce stress, combat depression, keep you mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose. While it’s true that the more you volunteer, the more benefits you’ll experience, volunteering doesn’t have to involve a long-term commitment or take a huge amount of time out of your busy day. Giving in even simple ways can help those in need and improve your health and happiness.
Your city or county parks and recreation department may need volunteers from time to time, especially for seasonal events like spring cleanups, leaf collection, and picnic area maintenance.
Many municipalities have at least one centrally located community center. Bigger cities typically have many community centers, some of which — such as youth centers and senior centers — may focus on specific audiences or types of activities.
Public libraries many times accept volunteers.
You can contribute your time and skills to houses of faith projects that align with your values or service priorities regardless of whether you regularly attend worship services or not. Faith groups of all types routinely support or direct local, national, and global charitable activities. Attaching your efforts to a church, synagogue, or mosque spearheading such efforts can be rewarding and even life-saving to others!
For the animal lover in you! Not much to say other than, "Bark - Meow - Roof Roof - Purrrr." An animal in need can always use a loving / caring hand.
Food and housing insecurity are evident in high-cost urban areas and economically depressed rural areas alike.
Find a political candidate / organization that aligns with your ideals.
Hunger. According to the USDA, more than 38 million people, including 12 million children, in the United States are food insecure.
Many households that experience food insecurity do not qualify for federal nutrition programs and visit their local food banks and other food programs for extra support.
Volunteering at and/or donating to your local or nearby food bank is a great place to start in helping those in need. Listed below are some organizations that may help you with information as you start your volunteer journey.
Ladies For Liberty has launched Patriots Pantry - Stop Hunger Initiative. This, by providing donations and food items to New Jersey pantries in need of assistance with an emphasis on volunteerism. MORE INFO.
Not sure where to look or get started? Please view the following organizations that may be able to direct you and give you a few ideas on how you can make a positive difference in the lives of people around you.
by: Ally Souza
You may think of giving back to the community as a seasonal activity. Something like putting together food baskets at Thanksgiving or buying gifts for the needy during the holidays. But the truth is that there are people who need help all year long. Fortunately, the Garden State has plenty of opportunities to make a difference.
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