April marks National Volunteer Month.
A time to recognize the individuals who give their time, energy and heart to support their communities. Volunteering plays a vital role in strengthening organizations, uplifting others and creating meaningful change.
A common guideline suggests that 100 hours a year is an ideal amount of time to volunteer. At first glance, that number may feel overwhelming, but when broken down, it becomes much more manageable.
Just two hours a week, or eight hours a month, can make a significant difference for an organization.
Volunteering doesn’t just help others, it also benefits you. Those who give their time often:
• Develop a strong sense of purpose
• Build meaningful social connections
• Experience improved well-being, including reduced blood pressure and better heart health
It’s a powerful reminder that when we give, we often receive just as much in return.
To make the most of your volunteer experience, consider the following:
• Find your passion: Choose a cause or organization you truly believe in. When you care deeply, your impact is stronger and more fulfilling.
• Seek purpose and results: Engage in work where you can see the difference you’re making.
• Avoid over-committing: Be realistic about your time and energy.
• Be reliable: Organizations depend on consistent support.
• Stay open to learning: Every opportunity is a chance to grow.
• Maintain a positive attitude: It can uplift an entire team.
• Go beyond the “fun” tasks: Be willing to step in where help is needed most.
• Support leadership: Even small efforts can ease the burden on busy boards and organizers.
Strong organizations set clear goals each year — and those goals depend on volunteer support. When there aren’t enough committed volunteers, those goals may need to be adjusted. This highlights just how essential volunteers are to success.
At the same time, volunteering can sometimes feel challenging or even underappreciated. In those moments, it’s important to focus on the bigger picture: Did you make a difference? Did you help improve someone’s situation?
I’ve been volunteering for years, often with several organizations at once. My natural instinct has always been to jump in and stay highly involved.
However, after several decades of service, that passion began to work against me and I experienced volunteer burnout.
Balance is very important. Recently I made the decision to step back and take on smaller commitments, ensuring they align with my passions.
It’s not easy to let go of something you’ve helped build, or to step aside and allow others to carry the torch, but in doing so, I’ve been able to reconnect with what I truly love about volunteering.
Volunteering is not a competition. It’s about people coming together with a shared purpose, to give back and make things better.
When you lead with heart, balance, and intention, volunteering becomes more than just service, it becomes a meaningful and rewarding part of life.
Carol Suggs is a longtime volunteer and resident of Mariposa County.
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