Opinion | Volunteering: A journey of purpose, growth and connection

At 11 years old, I am learning and growing through volunteering. It turns out, I am not alone in this. Experts say, volunteerism transforms individuals by fostering intellectual growth, empathy, practical skills and overall well-being, all while contributing to a stronger, more connected community. 

This is especially true for three critical areas: social and emotional well-being; developing deep connections, and mental health. According to the National Alliance of Mental Health, volunteering increases a sense of purpose and decreases depression and anxiety in youth. It fosters personal wellbeing and improves overall health.

Three years ago, fascinated by the concept, I started a free virtual STEM club to help students’ academic growth in science, engineering, technology and mathematics. To explore a multitude of STEM topics, I invite expert speakers to the club. Working to solve math problems and science quizzes enhances the club members’ academic growth, collaboration and leadership skills. The club is both fun and stimulating for the students.

I continue to volunteer because I see inequities. As a result, I am compelled to make a difference. Every year, I conduct fundraisers to donate books and school supplies to the Children’s Hospital of Michigan. Having been a patient there myself, I understand the boredom that comes while waiting for the doctor, and books can offer a welcome distraction.

Beyond donations, I try to connect directly with the community by attending community outreach events. My favorite part about attending community outreach events is connecting with leaders on other display stations and learning about their work. This summer, I attended the McKinney Foundation’s community outreach event, where I served as a vaccine ambassador. I also visited other tables; one of my favorites was nutrition. It was fascinating to learn how 5kg of fat and 5kg of muscle look so different in the human body.

In Wayne County, I am a volunteer for 4-H, a youth development organization. The four H’s (Head, Health, Hands, and Heart) are central to its philosophy. Head represents critical thinking and problem solving, Heart symbolizes social and emotional growth when serving others, and Hands and Health signify practical action and well-being. Volunteerism empowers youth with civic engagement and helps improve their mental health.

For those who are beginning volunteerism, the United Nations (UN) has devised a functional pathway: a framework of 17 sustainable development goals. Of these, I target Goal 4, which ensures quality education; at the same time, I target Goal 10, which helps decrease inequalities. Similarly, you can pick the goals about which you are enthusiastic.

According to the UN, to achieve these goals by 2030, one of the most powerful tools is volunteerism.

By embracing volunteerism, we can play a vital role in bringing these global goals to life, creating a sustainable and inclusive world.