Make Volunteering Your New Year’s Resolution

Just because 2020 is already here, doesn’t mean it’s too late to make a New Year’s resolution.

There’s still time.

If you are looking for an idea to make a better 2020 for your business, our community or just for yourself - why not volunteer?

Whether you volunteer for an organization with ties to the meetings industry, such as Meeting Professionals International (MPI), or a completely different opportunity that is focused on a local charity initiative; there are many personal and professional benefits when you decide to do the work without the pay cheque.

Here are the top five benefits when you roll-up your sleeves and do great work for the greater good:

1. Learn – As a volunteer you encounter new environments, face different challenges and connect with new people. You will learn new skills, gain knowledge and discover alternate approaches to solving a problem. An added benefit is that you take these new experiences back to your day job. It’s a win-win for everyone.
   
   
2. Teach – You have a lifetime of skills and experience accumulated that you can share with other volunteers, who in turn will bring it back to their day jobs.
   
   
3. Expand your network – When you work in a different role you will meet potential future employees, employers, clients, suppliers and friends.
   
   
4. Be a community Builder – Think of the example you will set for future generations, such as your younger co-workers, children and relatives. You demonstrate that volunteers make a real difference. It is an important and worthwhile endeavour.
   
   
5. And finally, be Happy – The same principle of ‘it is better to give than to receive’ applies to volunteering. Studies have shown that giving back to your own community kindles happiness and a greater sense of belonging. As a result, everyone benefits.

If you are looking to boost the balance of your 2020 to the next level, consider being a volunteer, it is definitely not too late.

Article written by: Desmond Lomas, Howes Group

Article edited by: Darlene Kelly-Stewart, Stonehouse Sales & Marketing Services