Have you considered in-person volunteering to help those in need?

Volunteer work is a wonderful way to make a positive contribution to your community. However, did you know that volunteering can have a positive impact on yourself as well?

That's right. Being a volunteer does a lot more than just giving you the warm fuzzies inside. A study conducted by Health Psychology found that those who volunteer live longer lives.

Being a volunteer can help improve your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Many volunteers receive more benefit from the experience than the recipients.

Keep reading this article to learn more about the benefits of volunteer opportunities.

1. Learning 

When you volunteer, you usually aren't doing things you typically do at home. Instead, you are stepping outside of your comfort zone to try new activities. Participating in new activities allows you to learn and develop new skills.

For example, someone who volunteers to cook dinner at a homeless shelter who has never cooked for a large group before gets to walk away from the experience with a new skill.

2. Friendships

Being a volunteer means you get the opportunity to meet other like-minded volunteers as well.

After a few weeks at a volunteer project, it will be easy to start forming friendships. Many studies are pointing to the fact that more friendships lead to a longer and healthier life.

3. More Time and More Money 

Yes, being a volunteer will not only improve your health, it will also make you feel like you have more time and more money.

According to a Harvard study, you feel less rushed when you give your time away. And another study indicates that those who give money away to charity feel wealthier.

4. Healthier Body

Being a volunteer can also help you maintain a healthy physical state.

Studies find that those who volunteer have lower mortality rates as well as better functional abilities. They are also less likely to suffer from depression.

5. Build Your Resume

Do you feel like your resume could use a boost? If so, join a volunteer group.

Being a volunteer looks great on a professional resume. It shows future employers that you are committed, passionate, and altruistic.

Also, if you are looking to switch job industries, being a volunteer in your new field of choice is a great way to get your foot in the door. Or, if you are looking to move from the corporate world to the nonprofit sector, being a volunteer is a great way to demonstrate your interest in this field.

6. Feel More Love

Last but not least, being a volunteer is a great way to feel love from others.

Typically, the more you volunteer, the happier you will become. This happiness can help increase your empathy and strengthen your social bonds. Both of which can lead to a more loving life!

Hopefully, these benefits have inspired you to go out and volunteer in your community. We've got some great information for you when you're ready to give it a go.