These
days volunteering is not just about giving time and helping others
but also about self-development and fun. The personal rewards derived
by volunteers are often as significant as the benefits gained by those
they help. Furthermore, research suggests that voluntary work not
only enhances an individual's future job prospects but also increases
their sense of well-being and can even add two years to their life!
Helping yourself whilst helping others
Meet people and make new friends Put current skills, experience and knowledge to good use Develop new skills and gain new qualifications Enhance CV and future job prospects Work hours that suit your lifestyle Build self-confidence and self-esteem Contribute to community and enhance community spirit Make a difference and help change the lives of others Increase sense of well-being (Source: Volunteering England)
Add two years to your life
(Source: Dr David Demko, leading US academic)
Drink and smoke less, lose weight and improve your sex life!
(Source: Community Service Volunteers )
Here are just some of the voluntary organisations
that operate in Western Europe along with a selection
of real life stories from those who currently volunteer in their
local community.
Meet people and make new friends