The Stanford Center on Longevity completed a study on why people do not regularly volunteer. While many people have a desire to volunteer, research shows that only 1 out of 4 Americans do.

The results of the study show three common deterrents:

Research suggests those who volunteer before retirement are more likely to volunteer in retirement. Creating a habit of volunteering early in life will lead to more consistent commitments of outreach.

1 out of 4 people say they don’t volunteer because no one asked them to. Volunteers want to feel included in the goals of the organization, and that their work (even if unpaid) is valued and appreciated. So… let’s ask!

A very common reason is that people don’t have information about where to volunteer, or if they do, the jobs are not meaningful or purposeful. Organizations should make sure they match the skills and experience of their volunteers to the roles they have available.

Mental health has rightfully become a focal point in our day-to-day lives post the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously it was taboo to discuss personal struggles and now it is encouraged, however, not everyone has access to the immediate help they need. Susan Albers, Psy.D., psychologist for the Cleveland Clinic, confirms helping others activates the reward center in your brain and releases serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. This is why there is improved physical health and cognitive function after volunteering. 

When battling depression, loneliness, and emptiness, one of the hardest things to do is get out of bed and go do something “good for you” much less finding all the details you need to volunteer. Our goal is to make it easy to volunteer through VOLUNSTEER. Everyone deals with different levels of struggle in their lives, and when you volunteer, depression, loneliness, and emptiness, turns to social support, connection, and fulfillment. And on top of that, the cause you are volunteering for receives the help they need!