5 Ways Volunteering Boosts Your Health and Well-being

Are you ready to supercharge your health and well-being while making a positive impact in your community? Look no further than volunteering! It's not just about giving back; it's about reaping amazing benefits for yourself too. Let's dive into five ways volunteering can boost your overall wellness:   

1. Mood Booster: 

Volunteering has the power to uplift your spirits like nothing else. Think about how incredible it feels to know you've made a difference in someone's life. It's a natural mood enhancer! By helping others, you release those delightful endorphins in your brain that bring happiness and joy. So, if you're looking to brighten your day, volunteering is the way to go! 

  2. Stress Reliever: 

Life can get overwhelming at times, but volunteering offers a refreshing escape. Taking a break from your own worries and dedicating your time to something meaningful can work wonders for reducing stress levels. Plus, engaging in volunteer work has been found to increase oxytocin levels, the hormone that promotes relaxation. Say goodbye to stress and hello to a more serene state of mind! 

 3. Physical Wellness: 

Volunteer opportunities often involve physical activities such as cleaning up parks or contributing to community projects. It's a win-win situation: you get to exercise your body while making a positive impact. On top of that, volunteering has been linked to a lower risk of high blood pressure, a major factor in heart disease and stroke. So, lace up your sneakers and get moving for a healthier you! 

4. Social Connections: 

Volunteering is not only a chance to give back but also an opportunity to meet new people who share your passion for making a difference. It's a wonderful way to expand your social circle, especially if you're new to the community or looking to connect with like-minded individuals. The friendships formed through volunteering can bring a sense of belonging and create a supportive network. So, step out of your comfort zone and forge meaningful connections while changing lives! 

5. Empathy and Growth: 

Engaging in volunteer work allows you to understand and empathise with individuals from diverse backgrounds. By experiencing their struggles firsthand, you gain a deeper appreciation for their challenges. This heightened empathy translates into improved relationships with your loved ones, better communication skills, and the ability to navigate conflicts effectively. Volunteering not only benefits others but also fosters personal growth and self-improvement. 

Volunteering is a remarkable way to contribute to your community while enhancing your own health and well-being. So, what are you waiting for? Take action and start making a difference today! Whether you choose to volunteer at an animal shelter, hospital, with a local environmental group or other opportunities, the rewards are endless. Trust us, your mind, body, and soul will thank you for it! 

Volunteer to improve your health and well-being!

Would you like to start volunteering? 

If you’re ready to start improving your health and well-being by volunteering, we have some ways to get you going. 

1. Join in our purposeful volunteering member events: 

Buddy Up runs purposeful volunteering events for our members in our chapters across Australia. Whether it be a beach or park clean-up, volunteering at a local parkrun or assisting other community organisations and more - keep an eye out on your local chapter Facebook group and Buddy Up App for upcoming events. 

2. Become an Event Leader with Buddy Up! 

Buddy Up is currently seeking enthusiastic members to represent us as a volunteer Event Leader at an upcoming Buddy Up event.  

As an Event Leader, you'll have the chance to showcase your leadership skills and give back to your fellow Buddy Up members. And the best part? It's only a couple of hours of your time, with no ongoing commitment required!  

Not only will you be making a difference, but you'll also receive some awesome perks, including: 

• A FREE Buddy Up t-shirt to wear at the event and keep as a souvenir 

• FREE event entry to enjoy all the activities and excitement (where events are subsidised) 

• Opportunity to meet new people and make new friends 

• A chance to represent Buddy Up and spread the word about our mission to support our veterans and first responders  

So, if you're ready to give back, have fun, and make a difference for your fellow Buddy Up members, then step up as an Event Leader! Together, we can create unforgettable experiences and memories and show our support for those who have served our country and community.   

CLICK HERE to register your Expressions of Interest and one of our Program Coordinators will be in touch. 

 3. Volunteering Opportunities on Go Volunteer: 

GoVolunteer is an initiative of Volunteering Australia. Their aim is to match people who are interested in volunteering with appropriate volunteering opportunities. The website uses a national database you can search for volunteering opportunities.  

Check out volunteering opportunities here: Volunteering Opportunities in Australia | GoVolunteer