In a world often fraught with challenges, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or powerless in the face of adversity. However, there’s a potent antidote to these feelings of helplessness: volunteering and getting involved in activities that uplift both individuals and communities.

Volunteering isn’t just about giving back; it’s about actively participating in the betterment of society while simultaneously enriching your own life. Whether you choose to lend a hand at a local soup kitchen, participate in environmental clean-up efforts, or mentor a young person in need, the benefits of volunteering are manifold and far-reaching.

I am personally involved in three charities. One of which I helped to establish. Through that, I forged meaningful relationships, breaking down barriers and building bridges that transcend differences. Also had loads of fun!

The first charity I am involved in is called The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity. The foundation’s work is focused on supporting children’s medical treatment and enhancing the level of care offered to senior patients in geriatric and long-term care units in Poland. And more, as the foundation is also a vessel helping to introduce diversity, equality, and inclusion into culture, and helps to integrate people from various backgrounds. I coordinate fundraising events in January every year. Last year there were 8 of them, and we managed to fundraise 27k GBP.

The second charity is The West Lothian 50+ Network. The charity goal is keeping active in mind and body whilst providing the opportunities to meet new people and combat loneliness and social isolation. I volunteer here with various ‘internal leadership’ workshops. The impact is magnificent and each year the charity sees its testimonials on people, who retired, as they say ‘regaining their lives and purpose in life’, as well as a sense of being part of a community.

The third charity I volunteer with (and helped to found) is called the Foreign Communities of Alba Association. The charity works on enabling social engagement and cultural integration of ethnic minorities in Scotland through sport, recreational, cultural and social events and activities. We also focus more and more on improving mental health through encouraging people to do something else but just daily work. To go and build new relationships and integrate better with the British culture. We have provided mental health awareness training, help to learn English, organise sports and socialising events. Over just less than a year, we managed to build a community of over 300 people who help each other in the whole of Scotland.

My experience with all of it was that I met a lot of fantastic people, made friends, and I can say that my quality of life has significantly improved.

Giving to others can also help protect your mental and physical health. It can reduce stress, combat depression, keep you mentally stimulated, and provide a sense of purpose. While it’s true that the more you volunteer, the more benefits you’ll experience, volunteering doesn’t have to involve a long-term commitment or take a huge amount of time out of your busy day. Giving in even simple ways can help those in need and improve your health and happiness.

So, if you’ve ever felt a desire to make a difference or contribute to something greater than yourself, now is the time to take action. Whether you have an hour to spare or a lifetime of dedication to offer, there’s a volunteer opportunity waiting for you. Embrace the power of volunteering, and together, let’s build a brighter, more compassionate world for all.