Editorial: Volunteering changes lives, creates a healthy community
Volunteering for the good of society by helping out in shelters or spending time with children or the elderly is one of the best ways to connect with the community and to encourage others to learn and thrive simply by being there for people in need.
A great way for students to be in touch with their community and bring joy to another person is through programs such as Adopt-A-Grandparent, in which people meet with residents of a nursing home visit and spend time with them.
But even more than having that “good volunteer” aspect, programs like this are actually beneficial to both sides – the learning experience is mutual.
According to Huffington Post, the “grandparents” in these programs are usually in homes and don’t get the visitors they need that keep them feeling safe or to stay active. One hour each week can make a difference in an elderly person’s life, making them feel like someone is there for them and is dedicating time for them.
The Adopt-A-Grandparent is also a dual-mentoring program, according to Huffington Post, because students are able to learn about their past and their aspirations and get insight on someone’s life. This being said, there is often a great sense of respect between both parties, which can be considered rare amongst youth.
Another great way to serve the societal community is through Big Brother Big Sister programs, which are similar to Adopt-A-Grandparent in that adults mentor younger children for about the same amount of time.
According to the Big Brother Big Sister website, their strategic plan is to make a positive effect on youth in the community.
These children are able to better function in school because they’re encouraged to actually do their homework and create goals for themselves. Also, they’re statistically more likely to stay away from drugs and alcohol.
Children learning from people only a few years older than them, and being immersed in a cultural setting where they’re seen as someone who can make a difference, is rewarding. Being able to step up and mentor a child and see them grow up to stay out of trouble and actually do something in life can’t possibly be seen as a terrible thing.
USD has a variety of ways that students can get involved at the school or around the Vermillion community. SERVE, in particular, offers plenty of volunteering options to choose from, including Adopt-A-Grandparent and Big Pal Little Pal programs.
Of course, there are many other ways to help the community, too, from spending time with students from different countries and getting to know their cultures, interacting with people with special needs or serving in food pantries.
Volunteering is imperative to a happy and healthy community. It’s a learning experience for both parties that can change lives, and USD students should look for any volunteer opportunity in Vermillion in order to better the community.
