The Power of Volunteering

by Gary Hammond, Treasurer, Port Ludlow Village Council

I am the Treasurer for the Port Ludlow Village Council (PLVC), and I am a volunteer. Everyone on the PLVC is a volunteer. The Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Not only are the Council members volunteers, but everyone who contributes to our committees are also volunteers. You probably know our Trails Committee best as they work tirelessly to keep the Port Ludlow trails safe for us all, but all of our committees are listed on our website, portludlowvillagecouncil.org.

On average, volunteers for nonprofit organizations in the United States give 66 hours annually. If you break that down by month and then by week, it is less than two hours a week per person. Most nonprofit organizations could not exist without their volunteer workforce.

If you look up volunteering on the internet, you get this: “The power of volunteering lies in its dual impact: it transforms communities by addressing needs while profoundly benefiting the volunteer by boosting mental and physical health, reducing stress, increasing happiness, building social connections, and fostering a deeper sense of purpose, accomplishment, and self-esteem, creating a cycle of positive growth for everyone involved.”

Did you catch the phrase ‘increasing happiness?’  Wow!  The simple act of volunteering can bring more happiness into your life.  That’s a nice benefit.  But maybe the thought of volunteering seems like more of a time commitment than you’re willing to give right now.  Good news. Volunteering does not have to mean a lifetime commitment. Most organizations have different volunteer models to meet your needs. Committee work is a great place to start but it can require, usually, a monthly meeting commitment.  PLVC events, however, can be an opportunity to dip your toe in the water to see how much time and effort you want to spend. You can be a one-time, event specific volunteer.  It’s all up to you.

Although we host many events throughout the year (see our online calendar), the PLVC is hosting a special event this year in August. What was previously known as the Opportunity Fair has now been rebranded to Port Ludlow Connects.  This is a great place to find out about different ways to become involved in the community.  Whether it’s taking a class, finding a club that interests you, new ways to exercise your body, or opportunities to volunteer — it’s all there under one roof. Look for announcements for this exciting event in all the usual places, and check our website regularly for updates.

Whether you volunteer with the PLVC or any other organization, thank you.  Your efforts do not go unnoticed. Here’s to a new year with opportunities for you to put some more happiness into your life.