There is no question that we live in tumultuous times, economically and socially. These two realms are far from isolated.  They are intricately woven together. Difficult economic times cause challenging social conditions.  Difficult social situations, in turn, strain the economic system.

Once in a while, we need to step back and appreciate that for the most part, we are not the problem…we are a big part of the solution. Once in a while, we need to step back and appreciate how much so many of us really care about people – all people.  Once in a while we need to step back realize how many of us are making a difference.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Report on Volunteering released earlier this year, almost 64.3 million people volunteered through or for an organization at least once from September 2010 to September 2011.  If you are a member of this amazing group of people stand up and pat yourself on the back…Great Job!!  If you have not given back through volunteering just yet, plan to give it some thought.

So…who are these people?? According to the volunteering report:

• About 29.6% of full time workers volunteered, while 33.3% of part-time workers and 23.8% of unemployed workers did so.
• More married people (32.3%) volunteered than single people (21.5%) and people with children under 18 (33.7%) volunteered more than those without children (24.1%).
• Those with higher education were more likely to volunteer than those with lesser education.  Among people 25 or older, 42.4% with college degrees volunteered while 18.2% of high school only graduates and 9.8% of those with less than a high school diploma volunteered.

 

Read the report

The desire to help is a human trait that comes naturally and satisfying this desire can be an easy extension of your life with the right fit. JustShareHope is here to help you find a way to give back in a manner that fits your life, balancing the right cause with the right amount of your time.  As a social media site, JustShareHope gives you the opportunity to read about, get feedback from and chat with folks who have already participated, helping you make the right choice. 

Remember that as you share a moment, give a smile, or lend a hand, you are already part of the solution.

JustShareHope

Hope Grows Here