Most of us know that helping others makes us feel good. The good news is that studies have confirmed that there are many social, mental and physical health benefits associated with volunteering.
Volunteers are crucial at Mingary Care – our success depends entirely on the generous support of the community. Our op shops are our main source of funding and we could not survive without our wonderful team of volunteers.
If you have been considering donating some of your time, read on to learn about how you will not only be benefiting the organisation you volunteer with, but also how it benefits you too!
Improves physical and mental health
Volunteering keeps you moving and thinking. It reduces stress and increases positive, relaxed feelings – volunteers report that spending time helping others provides them with purpose and a sense of appreciation, both given and received.
People who volunteer also have lower mortality rates than those who do not, regardless of age, gender and physical health.
“I have had numerous bouts of cancer and working at Mingary Care makes me feel I have a reason to be here and keep striving for life. Instead of sitting at home worrying about me, I get perspective. I would recommend it to anyone who is having a tough time.” – Ronnie Matthews, Mingary Care volunteer
Provides purpose and new skills
Giving of your time and talents in an organisation that you believe in provides a sense of purpose and increases life satisfaction and self-esteem.
“I had been out of the workplace for a while when I joined Mingary Care. It has helped my confidence and self-esteem enormously. I have been able to build up some extra skills that would make me more marketable to an employer. It’s a reason to get out of bed and feel valued.” – Jo Harvey, Mingary Care volunteer
Nurtures new relationships
Volunteering provides social interaction and community. It is a way to build a support system based on common interests. Participating in a shared activity is a fabulous way of making new friends. Volunteers often come from diverse backgrounds and working together is a great way to expand social networks.
“I love working at Mingary Care. It’s like a little club. The people are so nice – inside the shop and in the sorting shed. We are doing something worthwhile and I love interacting with the customers. After retiring from a busy working life, I missed the friends I made through work. I now have a new community.” – Janice Markwell, Mingary Care Volunteer
Mingary Care is always looking for volunteers in their op shops. Did you know that if you are 55 or older and receiving Newstart through Centrelink you can meet your mutual obligations through approved voluntary work? It depends on your age and circumstances. Mingary Care is registered with Centrelink as an approved organisation.
If you are interested, please call us on 5479 0881, register online or email admin@mingarycare.org.au.