(Unexpected) Benefits of Volunteering

Posted on Friday, December 13th, 2019

An obvious benefit of volunteering is the act of helping others – but did you know that there are many other benefits of volunteering such as network building? Here are some unexpected benefits of volunteering!

Build Community AwarenessVolunteers

Volunteering can strengthen your community awareness – not only at Algonquin, but within the local community. It is a perfect way to integrate with local communities off-campus and get to know the city. Break out of the ‘student bubble’ and increase your understanding of the community you call home.

Create Friendships

Volunteering is a great space to meet like-minded individuals, and an opportunity to meet people you may not have otherwise, especially if you are new to Ottawa, Perth, Pembroke, or Algonquin! It is said that people build closer relationships and connections to people when they work together.

Build a Network

Not only can you cultivate new friendships through volunteering, but you can also forge meaningful connections that could be of use to you post-graduation. Try volunteering in a field related to your studies and career path; the volunteer coordinators may be willing to act as a reference for you, or even point you to job opportunities you may not have heard about otherwise.

Volunteers

Boost Your Resume

Many people don’t realize that volunteerism provides valuable experiences in both hard and soft skills that can boost your résumé. Volunteering can help build skills like planning or budgeting, while developing soft skills such as team building, goal setting, problem-solving and adaptability. It is a great way to learn new skills and try new things in a relatively risk-free environment.

Volunteers

Improve Your Physical and Mental Health

We know that physical activity is good for your health, and volunteering (usually) gives you a bit of a workout – whether it’s swinging a hammer or walking around a farm. As for mental health, studies have shown that helping others provides lasting happiness to ourselves. Volunteering leads to great personal satisfaction, knowing you have made a difference in the lives of others.

Become a volunteer!

Volunteerism is a primary passion of the AC Hub, and we are proud to offer volunteer opportunities that cultivate valuable leadership skills while also creating rewarding experiences.

To learn more about volunteering and current opportunities, visit the AC Hub website, or stop by the Volunteer Centre in E203 (2nd floor, Student Commons).

Volunteers

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