It’s understood that volunteer efforts benefit the communities they help. However, philanthropist Kunal Puri of Texas explains that volunteering offers physical and mental benefits to the person volunteering too.
The following are a few of the many benefits of volunteering, as outlined by Mr. Puri.
Increased Self-Esteem
Volunteering encourages individuals to learn new skills, socialize with new people, and make a difference in the community surrounding them. Making a difference in the lives of others provides a sense of self-worth and increased confidence. Individuals who volunteer often have a more positive view of themselves.
Reduced Stress
Chronic stress is a significant issue for many people throughout the U.S. and beyond. Kunal Puri explained that the meaningful connections made through volunteering could take people’s minds off their worries and reduce stress. The satisfaction of helping others can also improve mood while releasing stress and anxiety.
A Sense of Purpose
One of the most significant mental health benefits of volunteering is that it offers a person meaning and a sense of purpose. Volunteering provides fulfillment through helping others, which can be highly beneficial for retired individuals who previously felt a lot of purpose through work.
Kunal explained that a willingness to do what is necessary without pay when people need help provides a sense of purpose that can’t be found in a paying job.
Physical Fitness
Many individuals have more time to volunteer in their retirement years. These are often the years when people tend to be less physically active.
Puri explained that many types of volunteer work require physical movement, such as restocking shelves, helping repair homes, or cleaning up after natural disasters. Volunteering can keep people of all ages physically active and improve their physical and mental health.
The Volunteer Efforts of Kunal Puri, a Houston, Texas, Resident
Kunal believes everyone should dedicate a portion of their life to volunteer efforts. He has played in numerous charitable golf events and donates to many children’s charities, his temple, and his church. Puri believes strongly in ensuring every child has an equal opportunity to live a fulfilling life.
He explained numerous ways to find local volunteer opportunities, including searching for opportunities online, contacting nearby charities, or checking with schools, churches, and other organizations. There are countless volunteer opportunities to match varying interests and commitment levels.