Volunteerism is a very Jewish concept. It is based on the fundamental of chesed—kindness. As we know “Olem Chesed Yibaneh.” The world is built on chesed. Avraham Avinu, the first of the forefathers, represents the pillar of chesed. When we think of Avraham Avinu, visions of a tent open on all four sides to travelers come to mind. When there were no travelers, God sent him “travelers” to enable him to give to others; such was his need to give. Additionally, the Mishkan, the home of Hashem in the desert, was built by men and women who came forward voluntarily to give of their time, devotion and resources to be part of this unique experience.
The benefits for the recipients of volunteering are obvious to all. However, what are the benefits for the volunteer? What do young people gain from giving of themselves to others? Although the media portrays teenagers as selfish and unmotivated, research has shown that teenagers give over 2.4 billion hours annually—worth over $34.3 billion in the U.S. economy. What drives young people to roll up their sleeves and get involved to help others?
Volunteering has a positive impact on the givers personally both in the short term and long term.
1. Research has shown that youth who volunteer just one hour or more a week are 50% less likely to abuse alcohol or cigarettes, or engage in other destructive behaviors, as volunteering creates a good feeling about oneself. They feel like they made a difference in the lives of others.
2. Through volunteering, teens learn to respect others, learn to be helpful and kind to people who are different from themselves, learn leadership skills and become more patient.
3. Volunteers expand their social circles, enhance their social awareness and are more likely to have a strong work ethic as an adult.
4. Youth who volunteer are three times more likely to volunteer as an adult and 81% of Americans who volunteered as youngsters, give more to charitable organizations as adults.
5. Volunteerism teaches teens how to network and build a list of important contacts. The people they work with are also great candidates for recommendation letters.
6. Volunteerism exposes people to experiences they may never have known existed, and helps them discover a new passion and the context to pursue that passion.
7. Volunteerism shows that one is ambitious, that he or she cares about community and is willing to work to effect change.
One of the biggest favors we can do for our children is to encourage them to give of themselves to others. It may take some hand-holding. They may feel uncomfortable at the beginning. They may feel awkward (especially if they are in that “awkward” stage of their life). Volunteering together with a friend may make it less daunting and more enjoyable. However, with a little support, it will be a very rewarding experience for them.
Exposing our children to volunteering is one way in which we give our children an opportunity to view themselves as “mentches.” In my most recent workshop in Livingston, New Jersey, titled: “Raising a Mentch, Disciplining With Love and Instilling Respect,” we discussed other avenues as well.
For consultations or workshops please contact Rabbi Dovid Selengut, LCSW, at 201-757-6999.
By Rabbi Dovid Selengut, LCSW
