From Bottom Line Personal May 2025
“Measured by mortality, immune function, and organ integrity, people who volunteer age less rapidly than those who don’t. The strongest effects are seen in retirees but also occur in individuals who are still working. Volunteering at least four hours per week – 200 hours per year – shows the greatest anti-aging effects. But any amount of volunteering still has a positive effect – those who volunteer between one and 49 hours per year age more slowly than those who neither work nor volunteer. Researchers believe volunteering not only gives a sense of purpose but also provides healthful physical activity.”
Study of about 20,000 people aged 51 and older by researchers at Brown School of Social Work, Washington University St. Louis, published in Social Science & Medicine.
Since joining and becoming active in this chapter in 1990, I have met many incredible individuals who have become close friends. Working together on a myriad of projects, board work, and committee work we form bonds that last a lifetime. Volunteering for SSBA provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment as we each develop ourselves and enhance our community and region as a better place for birds and wildlife. Get in touch with me if you wish to learn about the ways you can assist with our chapter’s goals. – Deb Nickerson debranick@gmail.com
