At Daily Work, we believe that building relationships is crucial to creating a thriving community, so much so, it’s included in our recently restated mission statement.
To partner with people to find quality work by providing comprehensive employment services and fostering meaningful, supportive relationships.
Our goal is to help build a community where everyone has opportunities and connections to shape their futures. Volunteers are critical to fulfilling this mission and vision. Pictured here, clockwise from left, some of our 2023 volunteers: Vern Rice, Maryellen Skan, Anu Pal, Mari Jo Long, Jane Townsend, Tarek Legamo, Katie Gross, and Linda Lopez and her daughter (middle and left). Visit the Meet the Team section of our website to see more.
Research from the Mayo Clinic Health System shows that volunteering is actually good for you, and significantly improves physical and mental health. Volunteers report better physical health and lower rates of depression and anxiety, particularly among older adults.
Volunteering reduces stress and increases positive feelings by releasing dopamine, leading to a sense of meaning and appreciation. The research further notes: “In addition, people who volunteer have lower mortality rates than those who do not, even when controlling for age, gender and physical health.” Yes, you might actually live longer if you volunteer!
Volunteering also helps in building support systems, increasing social interactions, and expanding social networks. In our 2023 Volunteer Feedback Survey, Daily Work volunteers shared how volunteering at Daily Work has impacted their lives.
• My volunteering at Daily Work has been the most important role in my life. I get to see courageous people each time I drive.
• Helping others makes me happier because I was once in the footsteps of those seeking assistance now.
• I am more confident to advocate for a better government support network and simpler employment system
• Working with the Daily Work clients and staff has pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to help people achieve their goals and live with dignity.
At Daily Work, volunteers are crucial, contributing over 7,500 hours in 2023, equivalent to over two 3.6 full-time staff members and representing over $160,000 in value to Daily Work.
Governor Walz proclaimed April as "Volunteer Month" for Minnesota, recognizing the immense impact of volunteering on community health and well-being. By volunteering your time and talent, you not only benefit personally but also contribute to the well-being of others and the community at large.
If you want to reap these benefits and make a difference, contact Judy Sharken Simon at Daily Work: judy@daily-work.org, 651-204-3043.
