For the past few years, I have volunteered to assist with the Windy City Rubber Duck Derby to benefit the Special Olympics Illinois.
Each year, over 50,000 rubber ducks are dumped into the Chicago River off the Columbus Drive Bridge. The rubber ducks race down the river and everyone who purchases a rubber duck for the race, has the opportunity to win an outstanding prize.
Not only is the Special Olympics Illinois my favorite non-profit, but I have truly learned a lot by volunteering for such an amazing organization.
Here are 5 reasons why you should volunteer for a non profit organization in your 20’s:
1. You’ll become less self centered.
Let’s face it, most of us in our 20’s can be pretty self centered. But, volunteering can help you become more generous, charitable, and willing to give back to those who are in need.
2. You’ll gain additional work experience.
By volunteering, you’ll have the opportunity to pick up additional skills and enhance your current skills. You may improve on your communication skills, time management skills, leadership skills, as well as several other skills. (By the way, volunteering looks GREAT on your resume.)
3. You’ll have the opportunity to meet new people.
While working your shift, you’ll have the opportunity to meet several different people. These people will be diverse, as they will all be different genders, ages, races, have different religious beliefs, and may be completely different than you. But,that’s a huge plus for you as you can learn a lot from someone you normally wouldn’t be exposed to.
4.You’ll get to stand up for a cause you believe in.
Standing up for a cause you believe in, is one of the best things you can do. It gives you the opportunity to be yourself, voice all of your opinions and concerns, and inspire others.
5. You’ll boost your self-esteem.
After volunteering, you’ll feel more confident, self assured, and self sufficient. Plus, you’ll also feel that, your a valuable asset to your local community.
Overall, I strongly suggest volunteering for a non profit organization in your 20’s. It doesn’t matter what non profit you decide to volunteer for or how long you volunteer for.
What matters, is that you are giving back to your community and making a difference in the world.
By volunteering, you’ll learn to become more giving towards others, enhance your current skills, meet new people from all walks of life, feel better about yourself and who you are, and feel important in your local community.
