Giving your time to a cause or community allows you to help others.

But other benefits that come with volunteering include networking, refining your knowledge base and even learning new skills, says Melinda Larson, associate director of volunteers with the Good Samaritan Foundation.

Here, she offers five things to consider when looking for volunteer opportunities.  

1. Volunteering stimulates your mind

“You learn a lot when you volunteer,” Melinda says. “Sometimes it is a new skill, or maybe a chance to keep sharp a skill you’ve had for many years.”

Research shows that as we age, learning and maintaining what we know how to do can enhance brain health and well-being.

2. You can find a sense of purpose

Older adults, especially those who have retired or lost a spouse, can find new meaning and direction by helping others.

3. The investment benefits people of all ages

Intergenerational volunteer opportunities serve a community both now and in the future.

When older adults are connected with younger people, they may appreciate the joy of being around someone younger and sharing their knowledge with them; in return, youth can learn new skills that will benefit the community for years to come.

4. Volunteering offers a chance for reflection

“Be honest with yourself about what you hope to learn and accomplish as you volunteer,” Melinda says.

Ask yourself things like:

• What matters most to me?
• Do I want to learn something new, or teach others?
• How much time do I have for this? Are there other things I would need to give up? Does this matter more than that?
• Do I want to volunteer alone, or as part of a team?
• What don’t I want out of this opportunity?

5. Sharing Christ’s love has an impact on everyone

Matthew 25:40 says, “The King will reply, ‘Truly, I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’”

When you share Christ’s love with others, you tell them they are worthy of your time and affection.

This represents God’s love for every one of us, and makes tangible the gifts we have been given by him.