Feel good benefits of volunteering

People who give - money or their time – are reportedly happier than those who don’t. According to researchers at The University of Sydney, volunteering helps keep you in a positive mood and can lift you out of a negative mood because it releases oxytocin and vasopressin giving you a feeling known as the ‘helpers high’! Oxytocin makes you more likely to be generous, whilst being generous releases oxytocin, and so the feel-good cycle continues.

5 ways volunteering helps you feel good

• Volunteering creates sense of belonging by connecting you with your community.
• By helping others, we feel good about ourselves, a positive contributor to boosting your mental health.
• People who “give” – either money or time – report to be happier and healthier than those who don’t.
• Not limited to your happiness, you can boost the mood of those around you.
• Volunteering increases life satisfaction by helping you discover purpose and meaning.

Volunteering also improves your self-esteem and social skills, gives you a sense of achievement, and most importantly helps those in our community who need it most.

CatholicCare Sydney has a remarkable team of volunteers, supporting a host of programs including Companionship Visitors, Helping Hands, Community Support Callers, and Companions Matter.

Each program welcomes those over the age of 18 who are available to visit people at home for a cup of tea and a shared activity, have a friendly chat on the telephone to combat isolation and loneliness, make meals or help with light housework or transport, or be with people as they walk new paths post institutional release.

Every volunteer plays a vital role in supporting the delivery of our services across the Archdiocese of Sydney and helps us create services that wrap around individuals and families to help them through challenging periods and allow them to thrive.

“I was looking to be able to give back to the community and to support those in need and when I went searching, I came across a CatholicCare program where I could companion those at the end of their lives. It’s the greatest privilege. It’s important for our community, to be able to connect with other people and to be human, that’s what it is all about. Doing this (volunteering) has helped me in all areas of my life. It is really fulfilling as a human being… It has given me a greater sense of compassion.” Olivia, CatholicCare Sydney Volunteer.

Interested in volunteering? We have volunteer opportunities across Sydney working in one of our office locations, in the community or from your own home. Review our current vacancies and express your interest today.