From Goodwill to Great impact: Research Explores the Power of Volunteering

Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet new people, learn something new and make a real difference. But something as simple as giving your time to a good cause can also improve our health, combat feelings of loneliness and even expand your social circle. However, the last few years have seen a shift in who’s volunteering as a new study suggests volunteers are getting younger – with Generation Z more likely to help out than any other age group.

Research from the British Heart Foundation highlights the rising popularity of volunteering among younger people as figures show they are the most philanthropic age group when it comes to getting stuck in. Indeed, the vast majority (94%) of Gen Zs (16–24-year-olds) would consider volunteering, compared to three in four (74%) Baby Boomers (over 55s).

HEALTH AND HAPPINESS
Volunteering is not only good for the body and mind, it can also help reduce stress, keep you mentally stimulated, and give a sense of purpose. In fact, almost half (46%) of Brits believe volunteering could improve their mental health while 42% think it will boost their confidence. The pandemic has shone a light on the impact loneliness can have, as one in four (27%) believe volunteering can ease feelings of isolation and loneliness.

TWO-WAY STREET
Besides helping a worthwhile cause, the benefits can be even greater for those that give their time, and the research explores the motivations behind people volunteering at their local charity shop. One in three (34%) say they want to support a cause that they care about while a quarter (26%) want to make a difference in their community.

What’s more, the research reflects how younger volunteers (16–24s) are eager to develop new skills (24%) and gain valuable experiences (22%) compared to their more experienced over 55+ counterparts (9% & 11% respectively) – providing them with some essential tools needed for working world.

We all lead busy lives, and it can be difficult to find the time to volunteer. Certainly, a third (30%) say the biggest barrier is not having the time to commit to it regularly. Flexibility is key for the younger generation, with more than a third (37%) more likely to volunteer if flexible hours were offered, while around a quarter (26%) would consider giving their time if they could work from home