When I grew up in the 1970s and ’80s, many people volunteered their time to help people through their churches and social organizations.

When I first started working in the 1980s, my employer at that time strongly suggested each employee select a community project and provide community service hours. This was not mandatory, but many of us did volunteer a couple hours a month.

As the years moved on, I have seen less people volunteering, and many have totally gone away from volunteering altogether. People’s lives are busier than when I grew up, but the need for volunteerism is still strong. I am happy many schools require community service hours.

Whitehall-Coplay Hunger Initiative is a 100% volunteer organization. We could never do any of our programs that help our Whitehall and Coplay residents without our volunteers’ continued support, time and talents. Our volunteers are a wonderful group of selfless people. They are all really nice and work well together!

Would you be able to help WCHI help others? All our volunteers must have state-required criminal background clearances since we work with children. For a full list of our requirements and to register, go to tinyurl.com/WCHIvolunteer.

Email Sylvia Lee, program chair, at volunteerme.lee@gmail.com with any questions.

I researched what benefits occur when people volunteer, and this information is from Helpguide.org.

“With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, the benefits of volunteering can be enormous. Volunteering offers vital help to people in need, worthwhile causes and the community, but the benefits can be even greater for you, the volunteer,” according to Helpguide.org. “The right match can help you to find friends, connect with the community, learn new skills and even advance your career.

“Giving to others can also help protect your mental and physical health. It can reduce stress, combat depression, keep you mentally stimulated and provide a sense of purpose. While it’s true that the more you volunteer, the more benefits you’ll experience, volunteering doesn’t have to involve a long-term commitment or take a huge amount of time out of your busy day. Giving in even simple ways can help those in need and improve your health and happiness.

“One of the more well-known benefits of volunteering is the impact on the community. Volunteering allows you to connect to your community and make it a better place. Even helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference to the lives of people, animals and organizations in need.

“And volunteering is a two-way street. It can benefit you and your family as much as the cause you choose to help. Dedicating your time as a volunteer helps you make new friends, expand your network and boost your social skills.

“One of the best ways to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships is to commit to a shared activity together. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, especially if you are new to an area. It strengthens your ties to the community and broadens your support network, exposing you to people with common interests, neighborhood resources and fun and fulfilling activities.

“While some people are naturally outgoing, others are shy and have a hard time meeting new people. Volunteering gives you the opportunity to practice and develop your social skills, since you are meeting regularly with a group of people with common interests. Once you have momentum, it’s easier to branch out and make more friends and contacts.

“Children watch everything you do. By giving back to the community, you’ll show them firsthand how volunteering makes a difference and how good it feels to help other people and animals and enact change. It’s also a valuable way for you to get to know organizations in the community and find resources and activities for your children and family.”