People are social beings. We crave connection and purpose. Volunteering is a great way to work with others to positively impact communities. But did you know it can also improve your health and well-being?
Good for You and Your Community
Volunteering has benefits for your mental and physical health. It can boost longevity, reduce stress, and decrease your risk for chronic health conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety, and depression.
Studies show that contributing at least two hours a week to community service can improve your overall well-being. But even occasional volunteer work has valuable benefits such as:
- Feeling more empowered. Helping others can create strong feelings of purpose, resilience, belonging, and gratitude. According to Dario LaRocca, M.D., Medical Director of Behavioral Health at Independence Blue Cross (IBX), “The empowerment that volunteering gives to a person is really underestimated. Volunteering can reinforce a sense of importance and self-worth.”
- Building deeper connections. When you volunteer, you frequently meet people from different backgrounds with unique life experiences and perspectives. This can lead to greater empathy for others, which can strengthen your personal relationships.
- Gaining or sharing knowledge. Volunteering can give you the chance to learn new skills or use your skills and talents to help mentor others.
Everyone Is Welcome!
People of all ages and backgrounds can volunteer. Many community service activities offer opportunities for family members to do meaningful work together. Parents who volunteer with their children reinforce values of kindness and generosity. In many families, community service becomes a tradition, especially around holidays.
According to Dr. LaRocca, older individuals also get benefits from volunteering. Connecting with others can alleviate feelings of loneliness, which is a major concern for older adults. Volunteering also gives older adults a chance to share their wisdom and expertise with younger generations. This can lead to a renewed sense of self-esteem and optimism.
Where Can You Make a Difference?
The key to a great volunteer experience is supporting causes that are important to you. It can also be helpful to volunteer with a friend or loved one.
The Greater Philadelphia region is home to thousands of nonprofits serving a variety of meaningful causes. Schools, places of worship, libraries, and community centers can connect you with organizations that need support. Remember that most organizations need extra help during special times of the year, like holidays or changes of season.
Here are just a few ways to make a difference in your community:
- Tend a community garden or support a neighborhood clean-up effort
- Serve as a youth mentor or coach
- Pack backpacks for a school supply drive
- Foster pets at a local shelter
- Fix up homes for older individuals or veterans
- Support a food pantry or food bank
- Prepare or serve meals for individuals experiencing homelessness or food insecurity
You can also find local volunteer opportunities through:
Volunteering Is Part of IBX Culture
IBX has an associate volunteer program that supports local nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving the well-being of others. Known as the Blue Crew, this group was started by associates and driven by their commitment to making our communities happier and healthier.
For nearly 25 years, the Blue Crew has modeled corporate social responsibility across our region and inspired others to make an impact through volunteerism. Blue Crew volunteer events are held throughout the year for IBX associates, with many open to their friends and families.
In 2024, nearly 1,400 IBX associates served more than 6,700 hours with the Blue Crew, supporting 185 volunteer projects with local nonprofits. IBX associates also logged more than 3,000 hours of independent service activities, further reflecting IBX’s culture of giving back to the community.
Courtney McDade, director of Public Affairs Programs at IBX, attests to the value of the program. “Through our Blue Crew volunteer program, our associates live our mission to enhance the health and well-being of the communities we serve. They support opportunities to go beyond what we do in the workplace by volunteering in neighborhoods throughout the Greater Philadelphia region.”
Blue Crew activities support organizations such as:
Volunteers power the daily activities for many of these organizations, and they are always looking for individuals who want to get involved.
Community Service Serves Everyone
Every community has volunteer opportunities. Look for organizations that align with your interests and values. Then, dedicate time to helping them out. Consider bringing a family member or friend with you. Working together to serve others is purposeful and empowering. And it can do wonders for your health and well-being.
For more information about mental health, self-care strategies, and where to find help, visit ibx.com/knowyourmind.
