14 November . 2017
Volunteer this holiday season and enjoy the “happiness effect” as your reward
One of the best things about the Texas Hill Country is the generous spirit of its people. This quality seems to shine extra bright during the holidays, when many residents volunteer to help make sure that everybody enjoys the season.
Volunteering not only helps others; it can also help those who volunteer. Many studies have noted the "happiness effect" of volunteering, which can bring benefits including connections to others, a boost for mind and body, fun and fulfillment, and even potential career advancement.
With the win-win proposition of volunteering so well established, websites such as VolunteerMatch.com can connect volunteers to opportunities in their area.
VolunteerMatch also offers some tips for finding the right opportunity. The first: choose a cause that you’re passionate about.
Currently, the website lists these opportunities to volunteer in and around Austin this holiday season, including sorting gifts for children and sponsoring selected families for the season.
There are also opportunities to volunteer at several of the nature-focused organizations near Sweetwater, both during the holidays and year ‘round.
These include Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve and several Texas state parks.
Even closer to home, more opportunities include the highly regarded Lake Travis Independent School District and Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Lakeway.
If you don’t have time to volunteer right now, how about an act of random kindness?
Sweetwater also believes in giving back. That’s why we’ve forged partnerships with a diverse array of nonprofit organizations, from Austin Pets Alive! to the Children in Nature Collaborative of Austin. Read more about our partnerships.