Lifelong Benefits Volunteer projects have been put in place to benefit those in need, but those who receive the help provided are not the only ones who benefit. Volunteer projects provide both age specific and universal benefits. Older adults may receive more benefits pertaining to their health, whereas teenagers expand their social skills and learn to be more respectful. All age groups are able to give back to others and receive the positive effects associated with their service. Since volunteering can provide benefits to both those who volunteer and those who receive the help, volunteer projects encourage citizens to continue to give back to others. Teenagers reap lifelong benefits, such as a more respectful demeanor, by serving others in their community; these benefits can be seen immediately in their work ethic and progress in school. The University of Nevada published a study that states teenagers who volunteer are less likely to become involved in negative behaviors. These teenagers are fifty percent less likely to become involved in activities such as drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, or becoming pregnant when they devote one hour of their time volunteering per week. The teenagers are also more likely to do well in school, graduate, and vote. The teenagers reported an increase in their patience when dealing …show more content…
These benefits range from more respect and a stronger work ethic in teenagers to a slower decline in brain function in older adults. Some benefits may be age specific, but all volunteers are able to gain universal benefits, regardless of their background. All age groups are able to expand their social interaction, which leads to lower levels of depression. Volunteering benefits those who give back, and it provides help to those in need. Volunteering provides numerous benefits, and this encourages people to continue to give back and help