Community services is an umbrella term for many different professions that enhance the well-being of individuals, families and communities. These professionals often work in a variety of settings, including schools, community centres, and residential care facilities.
They can help children, seniors, people with disabilities, and English language learners. They can also work to improve the environment, such as by picking up trash or repairing buildings.
1. It gives you a sense of accomplishment
Whether you’re cleaning up a park or feeding the homeless, the feeling of knowing that you made a difference is one of the best feelings in the world. Volunteering also keeps you in regular contact with others and helps to create a strong support system, which can help alleviate depression during difficult times.
Moreover, it gives you the opportunity to see your work in action. For example, if you’re working with children, you can see their smiles as a result of your efforts. In addition, you can learn valuable skills such as customer service or construction.
Moreover, it teaches you to be selfless and empathetic. It also helps you connect with people from different backgrounds, which can be beneficial in the workplace. In addition, you can also explore your interests through community service by volunteering for an activity that you’re passionate about. This can be a great way to find your career path. For example, you can try out being an aged care worker or a drug and alcohol abuse counsellor.
2. It gives you the opportunity to learn about different careers
Community service gives students an opportunity to try out different career options and see what they enjoy doing. For example, students can volunteer at an animal shelter if they want to become a veterinarian or work with the elderly in a nursing home if they are thinking about becoming a nurse. By combining service with learning, they can make the experience more meaningful and increase their chances of a future job.
Moreover, working in a community service program can teach you how to be selfless towards others, which is a quality that will definitely serve you well in the workforce. Furthermore, community service also offers students the opportunity to meet people with similar interests and sympathies. These people can end up being great allies or teammates for them in their careers.
4. It helps you get out of your comfort zone
Getting involved in community service can give you an opportunity to step outside your comfort zone. Whether you’re picking up recyclables or visiting the local homeless shelter, these experiences can help to teach you to be more flexible and adaptable in situations that are not always comfortable.
You’ll also be exposed to a variety of skills that you can apply to the workplace, such as teamwork, communication, and organisation. This can make you more competitive when applying for jobs in the future.
Lastly, community service helps you become more compassionate. Often, the people you are helping in these settings are very vulnerable, and you may be able to relate to their situation in a way that you would not otherwise. This can increase your compassion for others, and can also help you feel better about yourself as well. It is important to find an organization that matches your interests and goals, as well as the time and skills you are willing to volunteer.