Recent research has taught us a great deal about the philanthropic happiness effect; a demonstrable link between the act of serving and volunteering and the overall contentment and life satisfaction of the volunteer.
In fact, the likelihood of volunteers being very happy rose 7 percent among those who volunteered monthly and 12 percent of those who volunteered every two to four weeks; and among weekly volunteers, 16 percent reported a feeling of extreme happiness.
So, do these benefits carry over to the younger set? Apparently so, as today’s teens and young adults volunteer 2.4 billion hours each year; and out of 13.3 million youth, 59.3 percent volunteer at least 3.5 hours per week.
When young people give of their time and energy, their efforts are sure to benefit the many charity agencies and philanthropic organizations in need of their services and commitment. Yet the question remains, does service work boost the mental health of young people?
Yes, and in a vast multitude of ways:
- Young people who volunteer at least one hour a week are 50 percent less likely to abuse alcohol and cigarettes, experience unwanted pregnancy, or participate in destructive behavior.
- Young volunteers say that they learn to be kinder, more helpful, more patient, and more respectful to others, and to better understand and accept people in need.
- Young volunteers learn to become leaders and citizens.
- Young people who volunteer are more likely to earn better grades, graduate from school, and vote in elections.
- Adolescent volunteers find purpose and passion in their philanthropic efforts. They develop a sense of true value and self-worth, taking pride in the fact that they are making a difference.
- Young volunteers can generally look forward to bright and productive futures. In discovering and working for the causes that mean the most to them, teens might well be setting the course for a rich, rewarding life of philanthropic service; and, with any luck, might just set the course for a future career.
Foundations Asheville Can Help
Foundations Asheville is a young adult transition community located in North Carolina.The program serves men ages 18-25 who need tools to make the transition from adolescence to life as an independent adult. Foundations offers an individualized combination of education, vocation training, community service, healthy lifestyle skills, relationship building, and participation in a community of peers. For more information, visit https://foundationsasheville.com/ or call (877) 318-7273.
The Foundations Team” profile “We work tirelessly to empower individuals with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in their personal and professional lives. To contact our admissions team, call (877) 318-7273
