So here’s the deal. I’ve seen and studied many lists on “why to give back” - these lists are numerous because the reasons are numerous, most often resonating best with the people who are already giving. So why would I attempt my own?
As I see it, everyone living means everyone giving, which means we all have to experience it for ourselves...that "aha" moment that gets your engine going just enough to take that first step. Because if I know anything, it's that after that first step, you are hooked. (For proof: www.katesclub.org)
Social good is just that…it’s social. And like anything social, the first step is always the hardest. It’s the only one you have to take where you feel alone. Think about it: First date. First day at work. First day joining a gym. First day of volunteering. But it can be made a little bit easier if a friend is there with you. So, as your friend, here is a list I’ve created as the TOP reasons I believe we all should be Living by Giving. I’m not saying these are the only reasons, but they are some pretty convincing ones:
1.) It's good for your health. To know me is to know that if I connect to something emotionally, I’m sold. But I respect that not all of you may be such softies. For those of you who are looking for a little more scientific proof, here it is. Medical and clinical support shows that volunteering does provide physical and mental rewards. Experts report that when you focus on someone other than yourself, it interrupts usual tension-producing patterns. Moods derived from volunteerism: such as optimism and joy boost actually boost your immune system. This is clinical stuff that I can’t make up.
2.) Are you looking for a job? Volunteering is a great opportunity to learn some new skills, boost up your resume and network with people who could be your future colleague or boss. This works two-fold: You may be volunteering with a group and your new friendships connect you with a potential job. Or you may even find yourself enjoying working for a non-profit as a volunteer and end up getting paid for your work. It happens. Non-profits often look within its volunteer base when hiring.
3.) Or perhaps you are looking for that someone special? I’ve seen this happen at Kate’s Club. Two volunteers, meeting at a fundraiser event, volunteering with our kids and now two years later they are married. And still two of our best volunteers today. I’m just sayin’….it can happen.
4.) It’s fun and social. Rarely are you volunteering alone. Plus, research shows that more and more people are doing it. Even during tough times, the number of volunteers has increased by about one million. This is one time it’s good to follow the crowd.
5.) It saves resources. Non-profit organizations have the constant challenge of getting the work done in the most efficient manner with the most restricted use of funds. We may not all have a million dollars to give, be we all do have something to give and often the biggest gift is time. Did you know that in 2008, 61.8 million Americans (26.4% of the population) contributed 8 billion hours of volunteer service worth an estimated 162 billion dollars? By the way, the estimated dollar value of an hour of volunteer time is $20.25.
6.) You DO make a difference. One of the biggest rewards is being a part of something that is bigger than you. Connecting to a cause brings perspective and balance into your own life by fostering empathy and self-efficacy. I just read a great testimonial by John Travolta and Kelly Preston, whose young son died a year ago. They shared that one of the best things that has helped them cope with their own loss has been their investment in helping others, including the victims of the Haiti earthquake.
7.) It taps into your altruistic core. I have yet to meet a “used-car salesman-type” philanthropist…never one. People who give back talk about it with such authenticity and sincerity. It’s a very contagious conversation to have with someone who is passionate about their giving life. Try it out. Ask someone you know who volunteers. Have them tell you “why.”
8.) Maya Angelou puts it best: “I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” I trust these words and live by them every day. As I figure it, you never get to see your own smile (mirrors and photos don’t count), so why not make someone else smile and see the real thing.
One of the keys to Living by Giving is to understand it is ok for the action to be mutually beneficial; it doesn’t have to be sacrificial. In fact, the more you are able to connect to the benefits for yourself, the more you are likely to commit to a cause that benefits others. Everybody lives, everybody gives.
If you were making a list for your friends, what would be on your list?
Friday, February 26, 2010 at 08:32AM 
