Understanding the Impact of Volunteerism
By , May 8, 2025
Overview: Volunteerism is more than just giving time—it’s a powerful way to create change. This article explores the impact of volunteerism on people and communities. It also helps you learn how to choose the best volunteer program for you, including options for college students.
What is Volunteerism?
Volunteerism means giving your time and skills to help others without expecting money in return. It’s a simple act with a big heart. Volunteers might serve food at a shelter, teach kids, or rebuild homes after a disaster. In 2018, over 77 million Americans volunteered, adding billions of dollars in value, according to the Corporation for National and Community Service. This shows how vital volunteers are to society.
The Impact of Volunteerism
On Individuals
Volunteering changes the people who do it. It builds skills, boosts confidence, and opens new opportunities. Take me, for example—I volunteered at an animal shelter and learned how to stay organized while caring for dogs and cats. College students often find that volunteer work strengthens their resumes and teaches them real-world lessons they can’t get in class.
On Communities
Communities thrive when volunteers step up. They fix local problems, like cleaning parks or running food drives. In small towns, volunteer firefighters save lives when paid staff aren’t around. These efforts bring people together and make neighborhoods stronger. It’s amazing how a few hours of help can lift everyone up.
On Society
Zoom out, and volunteerism shapes the world. It tackles big issues like poverty and inequality. Volunteers connect people from different backgrounds, building understanding. The United Nations Volunteers program says volunteerism adds to global peace and development. It’s a quiet force that makes society fairer and more united.
How to Choose the Best Volunteer Program for You
Finding the right volunteer program can feel tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by thinking about what you love. Do you enjoy working with kids? Try a tutoring program. Are you passionate about nature? Look for conservation projects. Next, check how much time you can give—some programs need a few hours, others a few months. Location matters too. Local programs are easy to join, while international ones offer adventure.
Make sure the organization is legit—read reviews or ask questions. Costs can add up, especially for international volunteer programs for college students, so plan your budget. Speaking of students, some programs give academic credit, which is a bonus. Safety is key if you’re going abroad, so pick a program with good support. Get more tips from VolunteerMatch to find a perfect fit.
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
| Factor | What to Think About |
|---|---|
| Interests | Match your passions and skills |
| Time Commitment | Fit it into your schedule |
| Location | Stay local or go global |
| Reputation | Pick a trusted organization |
| Costs | Know what you’ll pay |
For international programs, add these:
| Extra Factor | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Academic Credit | See if it helps your studies |
| Cultural Immersion | Dive into a new culture |
| Safety | Ensure you’ll be protected |
A Volunteer’s Story: 'I went to Kenya as a college student to teach English,' says Sarah. 'The kids were so eager to learn, and we built a small classroom together. It taught me how to adapt and showed me the power of community. I’d never felt so alive.' Stories like hers prove volunteerism leaves a lasting mark.
Summary: Volunteerism is a win-win. It lifts communities, grows society, and changes volunteers for the better. By understanding the impact of volunteerism and picking the right program, you can make a real difference. Whether local or international, your time matters. Ready to start?