In bustling, busy, and often overpriced cities like New York, the last thing you might want to do is give your labor away for free. But science proves that volunteering might be one of the best things you can do for your mental and physical health. Whether it’s stocking community fridges, knitting for seniors, or organizing clothing drives, the act of showing up for others has a surprising impact on health and longevity.
Researchers from Northumbria University in England, tracking thousands of adults over several years, found that people who volunteer even a couple of hours a week are healthier, happier, and less likely to feel lonely. The 2023 umbrella review analyzed 28 studies, which came to a resounding conclusion: the act of community care is linked to lower stress and depression, a stronger sense of purpose, increased social connection, and even a reduced risk of early death. Why? Because volunteering helps you zoom out from your problems and widens your perspective to the collective, it gets you out of your head and into your community.
The benefits of giving back aren’t just emotional. A major study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that older adults over 50 who volunteer at least 100 hours per year had fewer physical limitations, more energy, and better overall well-being than their peers.
While the impact of volunteering is possible everywhere, it’s particularly powerful in cities like New York, where so many people live shoulder to shoulder and are deeply impacted by the actions (or inaction) of others. From mystified transplants to unbothered natives, highly populated cities are bubbling over with neighbors, not just strangers.
Finding volunteer opportunities can be a simple as asking, “How can I help?” the next time you come across a local non-profit organization. For New Yorkers interested in getting started, here are a few places to start:
One Love Community Fridge
This organization aims to end food insecurity and combat stigma around hunger. Help them clean and stock fridges, pick up and deliver food, or fundraise by filling out their volunteer form.
The Bronx is Blooming
Help revitalize and beautify green spaces in the Bronx with this non-profit dedicated to environmental stewardship and youth leadership development. You can learn more about their volunteer opportunities on their website.
Landscaping and Cleanup at the Ridgewood Reservoir
Help remove invasive plants and pick up trash at the Ridgewood Reservoir in Queens all summer. Check their events page for details.
Help fight food waste with City Harvest
The food rescue movement takes food that would otherwise be thrown out and redirects it to people who are enduring food scarcity. To help with food rescue, distribution of nutrition education, start here.
Food distribution with Seeds of Liberation
Every last Saturday of the month, this non-profit community organization distributes bags of food to anyone who needs it. Add your name to their volunteer list and be sure to bring a mask and a bag.
Not in NYC? Finding volunteer opportunities is as simple as asking, “How can I support?” or doing a quick search online. Look into local non-profits, community gardens, neighborhood mutual aid groups, and even public schools in your area. There is no shortage of need, and beyond the mental and physical health benefits, volunteering lets you put your time where your values are by creating tangible change right where you live.
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