Doing Good

Assisting others creates a sense of purpose, promotes positivity, and strengthens communities. About 1 in 4 Americans volunteer each year; in a United Health Group survey. Most said their physical health and emotional health improved. Find a cause you’re passionate about; then be ready to show initiative, commitment, and patience.

Volunteermatch.org lists 20 places that need help:

Homeless shelters

Food banks

The Guideposts Sweater Project

Ronald McDonald House

Special Olympics

Habitat for Humanity

State parks

City programs

Literacy programs

Hospitals

Libraries

Senior citizen centers

Animal shelters

United Way

Red Cross

Salvation Army

Environmental organizations

Political campaigns

800–number volunteers

Nonprofit website creation.