Stats
Volunteering takes up our time, energy, and sometimes, money. It can be hard work.
It can find us doing and seeing new things, which can be challenging and even a little
scary. So why does anyone even go there?
Well, here's a reason:
Volunteering is good for others. The world is not a perfect place, and many people, animals, places,
and communities, need help. Governments and professionals try to meet everyone's needs, but it's impossible
for them to do it all.
This is why people become volunteers: because they can make a difference where someone
or something needs help. If people never help each other and only care about themselves, the
world becomes a crueler, sadder place. But when we volunteer our time, money, or talents, we
help make our planet a better, happier home where people work together to make life easier for all.
Volunteers and volunteer groups can:
Need another reason? How about this one:
Volunteering is good for YOU
Are you thinking, "What's in it for me?" The answer is, plenty! Here are some of the things you might get in return for your giving:
Hey...it looks like being a volunteer gives as much good stuff to you as it does to the people, places, or animals you're trying to help! That's the secret of volunteering. People who become volunteers usually lead richer, happier, and more satisfying lives than those who don't volunteer.
Look at the statistics for our program for 2023 and see the importance of volunteering:
Retired Senior Volunteer Program (volunteers) - 459
Cape Girardeau County - 230
Scott County - 229
Volunteer Intergenerational Center (volunteers) - 198
Cape Girardeau County - 108
Scott County - 90
Served 30 not-for-profit agencies and generated 55,729 hours of community service
55,729 hours x $12.3 (estimated value of volunteer time) = $685,467.