Putting the "Volunteer" in Give.Advocate.Volunteer

After a long winter, spring is finally here. Now is a perfect time to "spring" into action and make a real difference in the community. The gift of your time and talent is invaluable. By sharing your knowledge and skills, you can help ensure children succeed in school, families achieve financial stability and self-sufficiency, community members can maintain good health, and help is there when our most vulnerable neighbors need it most. In addition, volunteering helps you:

Build person and professional relationships

Develop new skills, gain work experience and enhance your resume

Contribute to a stronger future by share your knowledge and skills

Build self-esteem and confidence

Improve health and lower depression

Volunteers help impact lives in our community every day. While their work too often goes unnoticed, they are an important part of the great work that organizations do. For some organizations, volunteers are the backbone support that enables them to provide their services. The Jackson Food Pantry, for example, is completely operated by dedicated volunteers from the community who recognize the importance of helping struggling families put food on their tables. CASA, aside from a small administration staff, rely exclusively on volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abuse and neglected children. In times of disasters, American Red Cross volunteers give hope to families who may have just lost everything.

From one time activities to ongoing relational opportunities, there are so many ways to impact your community through volunteering. Find an issue you are passionate about and DO SOMETHNG! It's never been easier to make a difference -- both in your own life and the lives of others. Visit www.unitedwayofsemo.org/volunteer to get started today!