By Jami Feldman, Friends of Karen Volunteer

Our days are filled with “have to” tasks - I have to go to work, cook dinner, and drive my kids a million places. But what if you could carve out time for a “want to”?

Do you want to make an elderly person feel seen and valued? Do you want to ensure families in crisis have a healthy meal? Volunteering offers a chance to make a meaningful impact while building connections in an increasingly disconnected world. It’s an opportunity to bring a smile to someone’s face, share a laugh, and make others feel heard and important.

As a volunteer, I’ve helped to build houses, made countless sandwiches, delivered food, shopped for toys, handed out water and Gatorade during an incredibly stormy, yet inspiring race, delivered flowers to hospital patients, read to assisted living residents, and more. Each experience has left me with a profound sense of purpose.

So, how do you tap into this incredible feeling? What are the responsibilities and challenges? And in today’s busy world, what do you gain from volunteering? As we celebrate National Volunteer Month in April, here are some key things to consider when stepping into the world of volunteering.

Finding Your Purpose

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there- you have so much to gain. Seek organizations whose missions align with your interests, skills, and values. Not sure where to start? Ask friends about their volunteer experiences or explore how your company serves the community.

You may already have skills that nonprofits desperately need. If you’re creative, offer to design materials or help decorate an event. If you’re an expert organizer, assist with planning projects or fundraisers. Maybe you have an eye for marketing, data entry, or just being a cheerleader. Many companies use volunteering for team building, and as someone who has crossed a few finish lines hand in hand with co-workers, I can tell you, it builds friendships, confidence, and the satisfaction of a job well done outside of your regular work.

Making a Commitment and Sticking to It

Volunteering is a commitment, and following through is essential. Nonprofits and the people they serve rely on your presence. If you say you’ll be there, show up. Many organizations don’t have the resources to replace last-minute no-shows. Your time commitment can vary, from a one-time project or a few hours a month to serving on an event committee, advisory board, or even the Board of Directors.

Moving the Mission Forward, One Task at a Time

Nonprofits can’t fulfill their missions without volunteers. Some tasks, like working at fundraising events, might seem more exciting than others, such as packing boxes, but every job matters. That box you pack could be filled with toys to brighten the holidays for a seriously ill child.

Inviting Friends and Family Magnifies Your Impact

Volunteering is even more powerful when shared. My parents and grandparents set an incredible example, one that my husband and I now emulate in the company he started. We bring our children to as many events as possible.

As they grew older, we found creative ways to weave volunteerism into daily life—packing backpacks for back-to-school events, making holiday cards for hospitalized children, or donating gently used clothing. Kids love to feel useful, and the confidence and sense of purpose they gain from giving back can inspire a lifetime of service. It may even shape their future careers. My parents encouraged me to become a hospital candy striper as my first “job,” and that experience ultimately led to my fulfilling career as a Physician Assistant.

Connecting to Others Just Feels Good

Life is stressful, but volunteering offers a chance to connect while doing something meaningful. I’ll never forget volunteering at a Friends of Karen race on a cold, rainy day. I arrived underprepared, and a fellow volunteer handed me her gloves so I wouldn’t freeze. That small act of kindness created an instant, genuine connection – two people united by a shared purpose.

Volunteering doesn’t have to take much time, but its impact is tremendous. I hope you find something that gives you more than it takes and brings you joy, connection, and a sense of purpose.

Jami Feldman is a Physician Assistant and an active volunteer in her community. She lives in Long Island, New York, with her husband and two children.