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Volunteerism among college students in the region has been strong and robust over the past few years.
According to a recent Institute student poll on civic duty, roughly 60 percent of the 2,600 participants reported volunteering for nonprofit causes at least occasionally. This is great news for the community and for these students – volunteering has been shown to make people healthier and happier. Giving to others can help build self-confidence, reduce anxiety and depression, sharpen job skills, improve physical health and strengthen social connections.
This is especially important in the face of studies that cite loneliness as a growing national crisis. Loneliness does not discriminate and can affect anyone, at one time or another, from children to seniors. An AARP study of adults over the age of 45 found that one-third of respondents identified as being lonely. Older adults can be particularly at risk due to shrinking social circles, life changes, poor health and even transportation challenges.
Far too often, however, the issue of loneliness among youth is overlooked. Young people are suffering from loneliness at higher rates than years ago. Research published in 2017 by psychologist, Jean Twenge, at San Diego State University, suggests that more screen time and social media may have caused a rise in depression and suicide among American adolescents because the technology hinders the development of strong social connections.
For people of all ages, this lack of social connection is often at the heart of loneliness. That’s why staying engaged with family, friends and the community is so important to overall mental and physical health. Volunteering is a great platform for such engagement. It is good for the body, mind and soul.
I was fortunate to be able to participate in the Luzerne Foundation’s recent nonprofit forum, where nonprofit organizations had the opportunity to tell their stories and make their pitches for funding. I prepared, I practiced, and I pitched The Institute – hoping to be one of the chosen organizations that would receive a grant. Although not everyone was selected to receive funding, I felt that we were all winners. Just to participate was uplifting, and it was wonderful to hear from so many diverse organizations working to help those in need and improve our community. Whatever your interest, if you want to contribute your time and energy, make social connections and help your neighbor – there are many worthy organizations in our region that can use your help .
Churches, after-school programs, conservation organizations, sports teams, community theaters and youth organizations are great places to exercise your civic duty. The United Way Wyoming Valley’s website can connect people looking to volunteer with organizations in their areas of interest. They are also hosting the Day of Caring on May 15, when volunteers can participate in a wide variety of projects and help make a difference. Discover NEPA’s website is another great resource for connecting volunteers with community need.
So if you are looking to increase your longevity, improve self-esteem, build new friendships and feel good overall, think like a college student and get out this spring. Connect with an organization that needs your help.
At the Institute, we believe that good decisions begin with good data. We hope the information in these articles will help you and your family with informed decision-making now and in the future.