Volunteering provides physical and mental rewards. It: Reduces stress: Experts report that when you focus on someone other than yourself, it interrupts usual tension-producing patterns. Makes you healthier: Moods and emotions, like optimism, joy, and control over one's fate, strengthen the immune system.

Volunteering can provide a healthy boost to your self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. You are doing good for others and the community, which provides a natural sense of accomplishment. Your role as a volunteer can also give you a sense of pride and identity.

Volunteering increases social interaction and helps build a support system based on common interests. One of the best ways to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships is to participate in a shared activity.