Volunteering has proven to be a very beneficial thing for people in all walks of life. Not only does it give you the opportunity to give of yourself in a wide variety of positions, but it can also be very fulfilling and rewarding.
A study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania found that people who spent their time volunteering and giving back to the community, had more time to themselves than those who did not. They also felt more relaxed and a sense of usefulness after contributing to society.
Aside from the mental health benefits, many potential employers find it very appealing when a person makes volunteering an important aspect of their lives.
The Canadian Red Cross is currently looking for volunteers to help them out with the many projects they do in the city on a regular basis. The Red Cross provides assistance to millions of people in Canada through health services, injury prevention, violence/abuse prevention and they also respond to and prepare for natural disasters.
On a more local level, the Red Cross aims to promote humanity and independence for vulnerable people in the city and provide many resources for doing so.
Their Senior Services department, for example, works hard to provide assistance to seniors in the city. They help them set up their homes in a way that will be safe and user-friendly. They also encourage volunteers to visit or call a senior once a week as even the simplest of tasks can make a huge difference in their lives.
The Red Cross welcomes volunteers regardless of age, experience and availability. They are constantly looking for people to join the Red Cross family and allow the organization to grow even bigger than it currently is.
Right now in the city, volunteers are needed primarily for Senior Services and to take part in Disaster Response Training. With Senior Services, volunteers would be required to call seniors, visit with them weekly and provide transportation for people over the age of 65.
The Disaster Response Training teaches people how to respond and assist families that have been affected by fire, flood and other natural disasters.
Alicia Quann, service centre coordinator, emphasizes the importance of volunteering and wants people to recognize all of the hard work they do in Saint John. ‘’ Volunteers are the heart of the Canadian Red Cross. They are active in your community and deliver a wide range of services to improve the lives of the vulnerable people throughout the world,” says Quann, “Tens of thousands of Red Cross volunteers in Canada alone give their time and passion to help others every day.”
The Canadian Red Cross provides training and many opportunities to develop new skills. They want your volunteering experience to be beneficial not only for those you help, but for you as well.
If you are looking for opportunities to connect with or give back to your community, meet new people, enjoy new experiences, or simply for professional development, volunteering for the Red Cross would be a great choice for you.
If you have any further questions or are interested in volunteering, contact Alicia Quann at alicia.quann.redcross.ca
