National Volunteer Week

By Isabella Simantov

This year National Volunteer Week is held on the 16th – 22nd of May and is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering. Volunteering brings people together, it builds communities, and creates a better society for everyone. National Volunteer Week is a chance for us at Feel the Magic to recognise the vital work of our volunteers and to say thank you.  

Feel the Magic exists to help children and families with their grieving process by facilitating free programs and camps, as well as fostering a community of people. The literature suggests that there is a significant benefit to feeling supported and connected, particularly when faced with challenging life events, such as the death of a loved one. Loneliness and inadequate social support among bereaved individuals raise concerns about the risks to emotional, mental, and physical health for grievers. Without our dedicated volunteers at Feel the Magic, it wouldn’t be possible for us to deliver the support services we offer. For more information on the specific programs and camps we offer, click here.   

Benefits of volunteering 

Volunteering offers vital support to people in need, worthwhile causes, and a sense of community, however, the individual benefits of volunteering can be enormous. The right volunteering opportunity can help you connect with a community, learn new skills, and even advance your career. Research findings have identified that giving to others can even help protect your mental and physical health, and provide a sense of purpose to the volunteer. 

  • Volunteering often helps counteract the effects of stress, anger, depression and anxiety.  
  • The social contact aspect of helping and working with others can have a profound effect on your overall psychological well-being.  
  • Being helpful to others provides immense enjoyment, and your role as a volunteer can give you a sense of pride and identity, ultimately increasing self-confidence.  
  • Doing good for others and the community may provide you with a natural sense of accomplishment.  
  • Helping others triggers the reward pathway in the brain known as the mesolimbic system. The release of neurotransmitters such as oxytocin and vasopressin give you a buzz sometimes known as the ‘helpers high’.  
  • No matter your age or life situation, volunteering is a means to provide a sense of purpose, keep you mentally stimulated, and add more zest to your life. 

Volunteering is a way to feel a sense of belonging, catch feel-good emotions, embrace your passions and open the door to life satisfaction. A big thank you to our existing volunteers for your unwavering commitment and dedication to Feel the Magic. If you are interested in volunteering with us at Feel the Magic, click here for more information.