The celebration of National Volunteer Recognition Week will be held next week, from April 12-18, 2015. This tribute week honors those inspiring people who give away the one thing most people have the least of…time. The commitment of those who make volunteering a part of their lives is not only admirable, but is also critical to enabling many agencies to offer their service and support to the community.
While we often regard volunteering in terms of benefit to the people or organizations that are served—measuring its worth in hours donated, meals served, calls answered or dollars raised—it has become increasingly evident that volunteering is a two-way street. The health benefits of volunteering are many, and include lowered blood pressure, higher degrees of functionality and lower incidences of depression. But the intangible benefits are often just as important—the opportunity to explore new areas of interest, expand social circles and connect with the community are all appealing, especially to new retirees and those who have recently relocated. Volunteers can learn new skills, or teach the ones they have mastered to others.
Non-profit organizations throughout the community welcome volunteers, and opportunities are available for individuals as well as families. Students may explore career possibilities, gain critical workplace experience and are often mentored by professionals in various fields. Some high schools and colleges offer credit for volunteering, while programs such as Americorps provide financial assistance to volunteers. Days and/or weeks of National Service engage citizens throughout the country in one-time volunteer opportunities. Choices in volunteerism are expansive, whether a volunteer is inclined to work with teens, children or the elderly; to offer support to veterans, special needs children or the homeless; or to use their unique skills to build houses, screen shoppers for high blood pressure or assist taxpayers in filling out returns.
At the Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Commack, every week is National Volunteer Week. We are extremely thankful for our more than 450 active volunteers who offer comfort, conversation, assistance and laughter to our residents, adult day health registrants and staff. There is no greater gift than the gift of their time and no greater reward than the joy of a thankful resident. And we have room for many more! If you are interested in learning more about volunteering at Gurwin contact us.
