5 ways volunteering can change your life
Broaden your worldview
Volunteering can broaden your awareness of the challenges others face, which can foster a sense of empathy and understanding. Through volunteering, you can work more closely with diverse individuals and groups to gain deeper insight into their experiences. You may volunteer at the Buff Pantry or help with a party at the Children’s Hospital. Through these experiences, you can see how others struggle and triumph in the face of adversity. This awareness can expand your perspective and help you relate better to other people personally and professionally.
Become active in your community
Once you become aware of the different issues and needs in the community, you can take action. Volunteering can create a sense of responsibility that you are an integral part of your community. You can learn how you add value by contributing your time, skills and resources to the causes that matter to you. For example, volunteering at a ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥ football game to promote zero waste initiatives can help you understand your impact on climate justice. As a college student, when you feel empowered to participate in your community and help solve problems, you can positively impact the world.
Create a sense of belonging
College students who feel like they belong have better outcomes socially, personally and academically. Volunteering connects you to your community and can create a sense of purpose. For example, volunteering at an animal rescue can connect you to like-minded individuals. The personal fulfillment you experience can help you discover new interests and passions and build lifelong connections. Together, these elements bond you to the community and help you feel like you belong and have significant purpose during your time at ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥ Boulder.
Prepare for the future
Volunteering offers similar value to your future as working on campus or completing an internship. You can grow your network by developing relationships and build your resume by gaining new experience and skills. Committing to volunteer work demonstrates responsibility and gives you examples to highlight in interviews and cover letters. For example, participating in an Alternative Breaks program can grow your organizational, time management and team-building skills. The experience can equip you with the knowledge and confidence to become a proactive leader for change.
Transform your priorities
While volunteering can lead to personal and professional growth, it can also change how you see the world. Volunteering can foster a desire for lifelong learning and continued community involvement. For example, you may participate in a volunteer role that then leads to a leadership opportunity where you have added influence for change. As you dedicate your time to social justice through service, you may start to make choices that benefit the community and shift your priorities to become more community focused.
How you can get involved
The Volunteer Resource Center can help connect you to volunteer opportunities on campus and in the community. You can start small with short-term options like donating blood, participating in donation drives or serving at one-time initiatives through ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥ in the Community. You can also commit to through the Volunteer Placement Program or Alternative Breaks. Whatever your interest level, you can learn, serve and grow by volunteering. Check out options on ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥Serves or reach out to the Volunteer Resource Center to learn more about how you can get involved.