Why take the time to volunteer? It’s good for the world, yes, but it’s also good for you. Volunteers reap many health benefits from their work such as improved mood and decreased stress. Volunteering can also help your professional path: the Bureau of Labor Statistics says that people who volunteer are 27% more likely to be hired by employers. 92% of HR executives agree that helping nonprofits can improve leadership skills.
If you’re inspired to give back, there are many worthy causes here in NYC. These are just a few examples:
Homelessness
The New York Rescue Mission helps to feed and give hope to the hungry, homeless, and hurting men and women in the city. Volunteers help with preparing and serving meals, distributing donated goods, and more. Many hands make light work.
This is just one of many organizations in New York who help the less fortunate.
Animals
The ASPCA of New York dedicates itself to the ethical treatment of animals. Aside from rescuing them and placing them into good homes, the ASPCA also provides animals under their care with medical treatment and ensures they stay well taken care of. Since the ASPCA national headquarters is right here in New York City, volunteering at this location connects you directly with the heart of its mission.
Volunteers can help with clerical tasks to support full-time staffers, or helping directly with ensuring the animals on site are healthy and comfortable.
Children
While there are numerous organizations that help children, 826NYC focuses specifically on helping kids with their written communication skills. Their mission is focused on giving kids the ability to “write their own path forward, undefined by circumstance.” Volunteers help create spaces for students to express themselves. Encouraging kids on their literary journeys allow you to act as a role model, making a difference in their lives for years to come.
Refugees
The International Rescue Committee addresses humanitarian crises across the world, helping people who’ve been uprooted and need assistance with everything from health care, employment, food, shelter, education, and more. In 2017 alone, more than 5,200 volunteers from across the country helped to further the organization’s mission. Providing a safe haven for those who need it is a vital area that is always in need of motivated volunteers.
Environment
Want to help the planet? Organizations like Big Reuse help to encourage recycling, prevent unnecessary use of landfills, improve the city’s soil, and more. Volunteers help sort through donations, care for trees, and keep the city clean.
No matter which cause speaks to your heart the most, volunteering is a gift that keeps on giving. Don’t have the time to be there in person? Monetary donations are also a great way to contribute to the causes and help those in need.
Find more organizations that speak to your passions at https://www.volunteermatch.org/.
