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Citizen Engagement Strengthens Communities

(from NYC Service: A Blueprint to Increase Civic Engagement)

Value of Service

Research shows that service matters in some unexpected ways. Volunteering is associated with stronger communities, measurable health benefits, individual academic achievement, community participation and civic engagement, and opportunities for professional development.^[1] Moreover, by supporting their neighborhoods, volunteers are estimated to contribute anywhere from $150 to $300 billion in services and time to the national economy.^[2]

Health Rewards

Volunteering is associated with better health outcomes. Much of the research focuses on the power of volunteering for seniors^[3], but the experience has benefits across the age spectrum. In recent years, research has shown that volunteers are 30% less likely to report poor health.^[4] Studies have also shown that volunteers have a 44% lower mortality rate than those who do not volunteer.^[5] This may be because volunteers are healthier in the first place, or perhaps that the social networks created through volunteerism have positive effects on emotional and physical well being.

Youth Achievement

Youth involved in service programs develop stronger social and personal skills, and do better and are more engaged in school than children and teenagers who do not serve.^[6] Participation in service–learning also leads to a reduction in risky behaviors. A nationwide study of service-learning programs at 25 sites found that risk of course failure, school suspension, or teen pregnancy was 40% lower than the control group.^[7] Surveys of youth also find that participation in service–learning has a positive relationship to an interest in politics, current events, and community.^[8] The National Research Council reports that service–learning appears to be one of the most effective strategies for improving academic learning and youth engagement.

Civic Engagement

Service experience prepares youth and adults to become active citizens. Through volunteer experience, people learn more about the challenges that their communities face and become more likely to take leadership roles in finding solutions.^[9] Another study found individuals who had participated in service programs in high school were more likely to be engaged in community organizations as adults.^[10]

Professional Development

Volunteering and service also provide unique professional opportunities for working–age adults. In one survey, more than four out of five respondents found that volunteering enhanced problem–solving and decision–makingskills.^[11] In another survey, nearly 25% of volunteers reported that they volunteered to make new professional contacts.^[12] Volunteering also provides opportunities to gain leadership experience and can be a creative outlet to relieve stress.^[13] Community service can also help individuals explore new career opportunities. Employers recognize these benefits, and often rely on service initiatives to improve teamwork and morale.

Volunteering in America

For more information on service and volunteering, Visit VolunteeringInAmerica.gov. Research highlights from the Volunteering in America 2009: State and City Highlights, may be found here.