Volunteerism has been on the decline in the U.S. for years, due in part to a lack of available time as parents struggle to juggle career demands with family life.
However, if this trend continues and people quit stepping forward to help others in need, then something very valuable will be lost in our society.
Last weekend was a prime example of how volunteerism creates community. More than 600 people gathered at the Barlow Gate Grange in Wamic to meet up with old friends over a breakfast prepared by volunteer members. Proceeds from the meal will pay overhead costs so that people can use the building at no charge for performances, weddings and other gatherings.
The Fort Dalles Fourth Committee volunteers put on an Independence Day celebration in The Dalles that provided plenty of fun for the entire family.
Their planning efforts over the last year allowed people to gather with friends and neighbors to watch the best fireworks extravaganza in Oregon.
The truth is that volunteers have an enormous impact on the health and well-being of any community.
In some capacities, such as those of firefighters, medics and police, volunteers deliver critical services.
They answer the call to take on serious roles, such as advocating for children, assisting veterans, manning phone lines at domestic violence centers or taking care of abandoned animals.
Schools need volunteers to mentor and coach students, helping prepare the leaders of tomorrow.
There are also numerous ways that people can improve the quality of life in their area by promoting the arts or keeping parks and green spaces clean and accessible.
When organizations have the ability to utilize the services of volunteers, they can save on staff costs and spend more money making improvements.
What would happen if one day volunteers simply couldn’t be found for any of the activities and events that we all enjoy?
What would our Fourth of July have looked like if no one had stepped forward to donate time for the celebration, enjoyed by thousands?
Giving back provides many intangible benefits, such as pride, satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment from making a difference in the world.
The Corporation for National and Community Service contends there is also a link between volunteering and good health.
According to research done by the organization, those who donate time to a cause have lower mortality rates, great functional ability and lower rates of depression than those who don’t — especially later in life. Older Americans are even more likely to benefit from volunteering because they are provided with physical and social activity and a sense of purpose after retirement. The most positive health outcomes were exhibited by people who donated 100 hours per year, according to the CNCS report.
These individuals were most likely to have developed a sense of camaraderie, of being part of a team.
Reduction of stress is an additional benefit of volunteerism, as are better moods, both of which strengthen the immune system.
In addition, volunteers are likely to have a better understanding of community needs and to foster empathy and self-efficacy.
While volunteering, people often report that they discover hidden talents and learn more about the world around them.
We all can make a difference in Wasco County by offering our help to others.
The Civic Auditorium is providing area residents with a one-stop way to learn more about local service needs at an upcoming Volunteer Fair.
Visit the Civic, 323 East Fourth Street, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 16, and learn more about agencies and organizations that are looking for help.
By seeing adults help others, children are taught the importance of outreach. They will learn that “paying it forward” fosters a more humane world and that a sense of purpose is defined by more than a job.
— The Dalles Chronicle
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