Seeds of Kindness
April 16, 2024 | General, Giving at Kline Galland, Volunteer
Volunteering at Kline Galland
As National Volunteer Week approaches (April 21-27), we are celebrating the incredible impact that volunteers have on communities around the world. In 2021, nearly 61 million U.S. adults dedicated 4.1 billion hours to volunteering, estimating the economic value of those hours at about $123 billion. From lending a helping hand to spreading joy, volunteering enriches the lives of both givers and receivers in profound ways.
Benefits of Volunteering
Research shows that volunteering isn’t just good for the community—it’s good for your health, too. Volunteering is associated with lower levels of depression and greater life satisfaction, higher self-esteem, efficacy, physical activity, quality of life, and a better sense of overall wellbeing. Studies also have linked regular volunteering to a lower mortality rate.
But the best reason to volunteer may be the simplest one: fun! Through volunteering, a person can explore different interests, find new careers, and forge lifelong bonds. For instance, someone might discover a newfound love for animal care and advocacy by volunteering at a local animal shelter. Similarly, volunteering at a hospital could ignite a desire to pursue a career in healthcare. Donating time not only connects individuals with communities, but also with fellow volunteers, creating a support system that lasts a lifetime. As Maya Angelou once said, “I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”
A Volunteer’s Voice
Jemilla Goldstein, Director of Volunteer Services at Kline Galland, understands how meaningful volunteering can be. A lifelong volunteer active in community engagement, she also appreciates being and building the bridge between the organization, the community and individuals–finding ways to invite broad participation. To potential Kline Galland volunteers, she says: “We often can find a place or path for those who are called to volunteer. Come share your presence and talents!!” In fact, Kline Galland has numerous ways to join in the fun:
- Be a companion through conversation, leisure activities, pet visits, or simply by being here.
- Showcase your talents in music, storytelling, or whatever your passion is.
- Support end-of-life journeys as a hospice-trained volunteer.
- Assist with life enrichment, such as craft or art activities.
Despite the recent pandemic slowing down volunteering, programs that rely on volunteers are making a comeback. In 2023, Kline Galland saw volunteer activity increase by over 45%, and, as Jemilla explains, “we consider volunteers an invaluable and integral part of the team and community of Kline Galland”. Currently, there are over 42 volunteer opportunities posted online, ranging from calling BINGO to supporting veterans in life review conversation. Wondering what it’s like to volunteer here? Read the reviews. Kline Galland has a 5-star rating on VolunteerMatch.com.
Dedicated volunteers embody a core value of Kline Galland: compassion. “Volunteer support is meaningful and makes a difference,” Jemilla explains, “and it is part of how we provide exceptional care.” She adds, “Really, I am so grateful to be part of such a dynamic and talented team.” By planting the seed of kindness in volunteering, together we can bloom and grow.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities and expectations, visit the links listed above, complete an interest form here, or call (206) 805-1930.
###
Sources: Census.gov; Springer Nature; interview with Jemilla Goldstein; VolunteerMatch.com.
