Inexplicably, we feel incredibly motivated to lend a hand during the holiday season. Perhaps it’s all the family gatherings or incredible food consumptions that launch our generous senses into overdrive. Whatever it is, ‘tis the season where warm fuzzy feelings melt away self-absorbed wrinkles accrued from the rest of the year.

Why Do It?
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and of course, to make a difference in someone else’s life. Knowing what we did helped someone, even in the smallest way, makes us feel good by giving us purpose and inspiration. Many organizations, especially nonprofit, depend on volunteers to keep it running whether to coordinate fund-raising activities or to become a tutor.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor, 59 million people did some form of volunteer work during 2002, averaging 52 hours per person. The most popular organizations were religious or educational/youth associations. However, 13 percent did it for the sheer pleasure of socializing. Interesting, is that how people used to meet before Friendster?