By Jaci Feinstein, Founder and Volunteer-in-Chief of HandsOn San Diego.

Feeling connected to our neighbors and our community not only helps us enjoy a high quality of life, it also benefits both our physical and mental health. Studies have shown that social circles impact healthy behaviors; feeling connected and supported can increase life expectancy. Volunteering, joining a club or place of worship, or being active in local community leadership can mitigate stress, lower blood pressure, and help us feel safe, secure and valued.

Connecting community members to local organizations is mutually beneficial; it enriches the lives and improves the health of volunteers, and it provides valuable services to help meet needs within our communities. Volunteers of all ages, ethnicities and backgrounds add value to organizations by creating a broader pool of talents and skills to draw upon and expanding the impact of services provided to diverse community members. For example, having Spanish-speaking volunteers in organizations serving Spanish speakers can make for a more comfortable, person-centered experience for clients.

According to the Corporation for National & Community Service, nearly 1 in 3 people in San Diego County volunteered in 2014, higher than both the state and national average. HandsOn San Diego connects volunteers with short-term hands-on projects at local nonprofits, schools and parks throughout the San Diego region, providing short-term opportunities and long-term inspiration for change. 

Join us in reading this month’s Live Well San Diego Newsletter, which highlights partners who are creating community connections throughout the San Diego region.