Although it is important to recognize, each and every day, the work of volunteers - in any capacity, from parents who help out at school book fairs to co-workers who, as a team, assist in building homes for those in need - we use the month of April to officially celebrate this large group of selfless humans.

National Volunteer Month is a just extension of a week that was first observed in Canada in 1943, its purpose to pay tribute to women during World War II who collected supplies and helped wounded soldiers. The United States joined in on the week’s recognition in 1974, and it was made official worldwide in 1990.

As we watch the devastation and loss of life taking place in Ukraine, we are reminded of the groups that have stepped up to offer aid. These volunteers include not only residents of neighboring countries who are waiting at the border with clothing and food, but also those in our communities and across the globe who are taking up collections to send to the war-torn area. These volunteers jumped into action because their efforts were desperately needed. And continue to be so.

“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.” - Muhammad Ali

Statistically, one in four Americans volunteers. Those between the ages of 35 and 54 are more likely to volunteer. Volunteerism has a staggering value of more than $184 billion.

You know the saying, If you love what you do, you never work a day in your life? The same can be said for volunteering. We have the ability to lend a hand to groups whose missions we are passionate about. Our interests are varied, and the need for volunteers great, so we can spread our efforts across a multitude of groups. Maybe you’d like to collect or distribute items for a food bank. Or help at our community libraries and senior centers. Perhaps you’d prefer to get outdoors and clean up the area’s walking and biking trails.

So often, we begrudgingly volunteer for a task with the underlying feeling that we just don’t have the time to devote, that we have other, personal things to attend to. Just as often, after finishing the task, we walk away with a full heart and a valuable life lesson about what is truly important.

There’s a lot of research out there to show the benefits of volunteering. Mayo Clinic cites three:

It improves your physical and mental health. It reduces stress and increases positive feelings. Reduced stress can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, depression, anxiety and more.

Volunteerism provides a sense of purpose and teaches valuable skills. Our self-esteem and satisfaction with our own lives increase. In short, it just does the heart good.

It nurtures new and existing relationships. It builds a support system made up of like minds and common interests.

It was intentional to not list any specific group in need of volunteers because there are so many - local service groups, youth organizations, animal shelters, places of worship, etc. No matter where your interests lie, there’s likely a group that could use your help.

Take the time now to do some research about the need in your community and where your efforts will be best served. In a few weeks, you can feel the pride in being among those recognized during National Volunteer Month.

Though it’s likely you’ll feel that sense of pride - and full heart - every day you lend a hand.

Kelly Lutterschmidt

editor

Whitehall-Coplay Press

Northampton Press

Catasauqua Press