Yes, volunteering in your community is good for the soul- but did you know it is actually good for the heart? In a study conducted by UnitedHealthcare in efforts to “support and encourage volunteerism and understand its impact of health,” 76% of people who volunteered in the last year said that volunteering made them feel healthier!

94% said that volunteering improved their mood.

96% said that volunteering enhanced their sense of purpose.

78% said that volunteering helped lower their stress levels.

And a quarter of people said that volunteering helped them manage a chronic illness.

“Volunteering isn’t just something healthy people do. Everyone can reap benefits,” says Katie Rubin, Vice President of Social Responsibility at UnitedHealth Group. “Our study involved a representative sample of adults across the country: young, old, in good health and in poor health. Remarkably, we see older individuals and those who suffer from multiple chronic conditions taking on volunteering—and feeling better as a result.”

Are you ready to skip the gym this week? Sign up for a volunteering project in your area!

ACTION volunteers having a blast on Serve Day!