The Psychology of Volunteering Pt. 3: Why Helping Others Feels So Good

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” — Margaret Mead 

In this final installment of our three-part series on the psychology of volunteering, we focus on actionable steps to start making a difference in your community. In Part 1, we looked into the science of volunteering and its profound effects on mental and physical health. In Part 2, we discussed overcoming common barriers and the lasting societal impact of lending your time and skills.

Your Volunteering Action Plan: 5 Steps to Get Started 

Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or just beginning to explore the possibilities, these steps will set you on the path to meaningful contributions: 

1. Identify Your Passions

Ask yourself: What causes matter most to you? 

• Are you passionate about education, healthcare, animal welfare, or environmental conservation? 

• Consider the issues that resonate with your values and life experiences. 

Pro Tip: Use keywords related to your passions (e.g., “youth education volunteering near me” or “environmental cleanup opportunities”) to refine your search online and boost your chances of finding the perfect match. 

2. Assess Your Skills

What do you bring to the table? 

• Are you great at event planning, mentoring, social media management, or fundraising? 

• Think about how your unique talents can support the causes you care about. 

Pro Tip: Highlight your skills in volunteer applications or when reaching out to organizations. This ensures they can match you with roles where you’ll thrive. 

3. Research Organizations

Find reputable nonprofits or community groups aligned with your interests. 

• Explore their mission statements, current projects, and volunteer testimonials. 

• Look for local or virtual opportunities depending on your availability. 

Pro Tip: Websites like VolunteerMatch, Idealist, and local community boards are excellent starting points for finding volunteer gigs tailored to your interests. 

4. Start Small

Ease into volunteering to see what works for you. 

• Commit to a one-time event or a short-term project to test the waters. 

• Pay attention to how you feel during and after the experience. 

Pro Tip: Short-term opportunities are often available during the holidays or for community events. Use this time to try out different roles without long-term pressure. 

5. Reflect and Adjust

Take time to evaluate your experience. 

• Did it align with your passions and skills? 

• What would you like to change or improve in your next experience? 

Pro Tip: Journaling about your experience can provide clarity and help you track your progress as a volunteer. 

Making Volunteering Part of Your Lifestyle 

Volunteering doesn’t have to feel like a chore or an overwhelming commitment. By choosing causes that resonate with you and starting small, you can seamlessly integrate it into your life. Whether it's an hour a month or a weekly engagement, every bit counts. 

If you’re unsure where to begin, remember: the most important step is the first one. By acting on your desire to help, you're not only creating positive change in the world but also fostering your own personal growth. 

We’d love to hear how you’ve been inspired to volunteer. Share your experiences in the comments or tag us on social media! Let’s build a community of change-makers dedicated to making the world a better place.