It’s a New Year!
That means there are many of us thinking of our New Year’s resolutions. Maybe our goals include being more budget conscious, slowing down to appreciate the “small stuff” or not eating so much junk food. Personally, I am planning on taking better care of my health in 2019. Did you know that volunteering is good for you and can improve your health?
A 2017 study by United Healthcare and VolunteerMatch found that volunteering helps people feel good not only mentally, but also physically. Volunteers experience improved self-esteem, better mood, lower stress, new friendships and increased social connections. Findings also indicate reduced depression, better management of chronic illness and lower risk of high blood pressure.
Volunteering also makes our community healthier. When volunteers do their good work, children gain mentors, families are strengthened, seniors maintain their independence, abuse is prevented, meals are provided and homes are heated.
If you want to do something for your health in 2019, consider volunteering with the Monadnock United Way. Your life will be enriched, your health will get a boost and your community will be stronger. As they say in the study, doing good is good for you!
Please contact Kate Cote, MUW’s Volunteer Engagement Specialist, at kate@muw.org for information on volunteer opportunities.