Categories: Lifestyle

Kerry W. Kirby Discusses The Power Of Giving Back To Your Community

According to a study conducted by United Health Group, 86% of respondents said that giving back is advantageous for their health. And it’s not just physical health that benefits; experts like Kerry W. Kirby in New Orleans, Louisianna, say giving back has also been linked to increased mental well-being, a stronger sense of purpose, and improved social relationships.

In other words, giving back isn’t just beneficial for the people or causes you’re helping—it’s good for you, too! Here are just a few positives of giving back to your community.

IMAGE: UNSPLASH

It Makes You Happier

Kerry W. Kirby says most people think that the main reason to give back to their community is that it is the right thing to do. However, recent research has shown that giving back can positively impact your mental health and well-being. People who volunteer their time or donate money to charity report higher happiness and satisfaction with their lives.

One study found that people who give money to a charity, experience a “helper’s high.” Dopamine, the feel-good chemical in the brain, is released which helps to improve mood and increase happiness levels.

So next time you feel down, consider giving back to your community to make yourself feel better. Whether you donate money to your favorite charity or volunteer your time at a local soup kitchen or animal shelter, the act of giving will not only make you feel good, but it will also help make your community a better place.

It Makes You Healthier

Kerry W. Kirby says in addition to making you happier, giving back to your community can also improve your physical health. Studies have shown that people who volunteer their time or give money to a charity have lower blood pressure levels and a reduced risk of dying from heart disease.

One study found that people who volunteered for two or more organizations had 44% – 63% lower risk of dying over five years than those who didn’t volunteer at all. So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your health and live longer, consider giving back to your community.

It Gives You A Sense of Purpose

As we get older, it can be easy to lose sight of our goals and what we want to achieve in life. However, research has shown that giving back to your community can give you a sense of purpose and help you feel more satisfied with your life.

In one study, adults aged 60 and over who volunteered their time reported higher levels of life satisfaction than those who didn’t volunteer. So, if you’re looking for a way to feel more fulfilled in life, volunteering is a great way to make a difference in your community.

It Improves Your Social Relationships

Research has shown that giving back can help improve your social relationships and strengthen existing relationships. One study found that couples who volunteered together had higher levels of relationship satisfaction than those who didn’t.

Volunteering your time or donating money to a charity can help you meet new people and make new friends, which are additional benefits you reap.

How To Give Back To Your Community

It’s easy to take the community for granted. We use the roads, parks, and resources daily without considering where they come from. But every community needs residents willing to give back to keep it running smoothly. There are many ways to give back, and every little bit helps.

Giving of your time is a valuable commodity. Organizations like soup kitchens, animal shelters, and literacy programs always need volunteers. Giving a few hours of your time can make a big difference in the lives of others. Through the lives you touch, friends you make, and all the health benefits you receive, volunteering can make a difference in your life as well.

When you think of donating to a charity, most people think of giving money to local charities. Even if you don’t have much money, perhaps you can donate canned goods to your local food bank. Clothing and/or furniture are always appreciated at shelters. You can check your local community listings for drop off locations

Kerry W. Kirby says giving back to the community doesn’t have to be a big production. Sometimes simply being a good neighbor is all it takes. Offer to help an elderly neighbor with their groceries or mow their lawn. Help a young family move into their first home. Be friendly and welcoming to new residents. Showing courtesy and consideration for others goes a long way toward making a community thrive.

So next time you’re thinking about how you can improve your community, remember that even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference. Every community needs willing residents to give back. If more people got involved, wouldn’t the world be a better place and us all better for it?

Final Thoughts

Giving back to your community is a great way to improve your health, live longer, and feel more fulfilled. It’s also great to meet new people and strengthen existing relationships. There are many ways to give back to your community, so find an opportunity that suits you and get started today.