Many people choose to engage in community service as a way of helping others. Other people are required to do so as part of their high school graduation requirements or by a court order.
Often, community service is done in the region where one lives and they are not paid for their efforts (though food or t-shirts may be provided). Some people use their community service opportunities to learn skills that will help them in their careers.
It Instills Values and Empathy
In community service, people gain a deeper understanding of the lives and struggles of others. It also improves their communication skills and helps them appreciate different cultures. It can even help them break down stereotypes and be a more well-rounded person.
It also enhances emotional intelligence by teaching you to recognise and manage your own emotions while considering the feelings of those around you. This allows you to connect better with clients and make them feel understood and supported. You can further hone your empathy skills by seeking out training programs and workshops that teach you how to be an effective leader, communicator, and manager.
Many people also learn a lot about different careers by doing community services in fields they want to work in down the road. This can give them an edge when applying for internships or jobs and also helps them decide if that career is right for them. This can be especially helpful for young people who have yet to figure out their passions.
It Fills Gaps in Social Services
Community services are non-profit organizations that help the poor, elderly and disabled. Their services are often in the fields of education, health care, child care, recreation, crime prevention, housing and public safety. They also provide spiritual guidance and counseling. Many of these organizations were founded by Christians who want to put their beliefs into practice.
These programs are on the rise both because there is growing evidence that social risk factors can affect health as much as—or even more than—clinical risk factors, and because of the ACA’s emphasis on integrated care and population health. However, implementing and funding these networks is challenging.
Wilder Research recently partnered with DHS to explore the work of select backbone organizations that coordinate healthcare and social services—known as Community Care Hubs. Based on results from an environmental scan, we interviewed key informants about how they design their partnerships and the barriers they face in achieving their objectives. These barriers include finding sustainable, sufficient funding and building strong partnerships with government.
It Improves Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Community services are a vital part of society, and can have a profound impact on mental health and well-being. By promoting social connection, supporting vulnerable populations, and building resilient communities, community services help to create a healthier and happier world for everyone.
Volunteering also improves the mental and emotional wellbeing of individuals. It has been found that volunteering can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, and even contribute to a longer life expectancy.
It is an opportunity to learn new skills and gain a broader perspective on the world around us. As a result of this, participants have the ability to develop a sense of responsibility, compassion, and moral courage.
The power of community support has a significant impact on mental health, especially in vulnerable populations such as those affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Research has shown that community-based interventions have been effective in providing the connections, understanding, and shared experiences that people inherently seek.
It Brings People Together
Community service brings people together from all backgrounds, fostering a sense of connection and unity. This helps people get to know each other and breaks down stereotypes, resulting in better relationships and a more diverse worldview.
Often, those who engage in community services work directly with families and individuals experiencing hardships. This can be a powerful experience that gives them a glimpse into their community’s struggles, and enables them to reevaluate their opinions of those who may differ from them.
Moreover, volunteering can help people learn new skills and boost their resumes with experiences that are difficult to obtain in the workplace. Ideally, students will choose an organization that aligns with their interests and skill sets. This will maximize the impact of their efforts and make them more employable in the long run. This is particularly important for college students who want to stand out in the job market. This translates into a competitive edge on job applications and the potential for future leadership roles.