#12- Final Summary/Reaction

In concluding my research, I have come to see many different responses and outlooks on volunteering. I have emailed and messaged everyone I knew my survey to take. I told all my friends to spread the word so that I could get as many responses/reactions as I could. I am in fact still receiving more. In total I have received 67 responses from both male and females. I received the most from the ages between 16-18, about 43%. In my hypothesis I mentioned that younger teenagers are less likely to volunteer, whereas older teens would volunteer more because they seek the meaning behind it. An eye opening response that I found interesting was the amount of hours people completed in the past 2 months. About  55% completed 5 hours or less, 21% completed 10-15 hours, 18% completed 20-30 hours and only 6% completed 50+ hours of service. It was shocking to see because the 55% who completed 5 or less hours of service were the teenagers between the ages of 13-15 and mostly 16-18. The teenagers who completed 50+ hours were only the 13-15 year old category. I was correct in my hypothesis stating that students who are younger are less likely to volunteer more hours than those who are older.
  When analyzing to see if students only volunteer for school purposes only, 52% of them said no it was not, and 30% said sometimes they did and 18% said that they only volunteered for school reasons. I wasn't at all surprised to see these responses because most students work with many other groups outside and inside of school. 58% stated that they volunteered with both groups and also on their own. I also wanted to see the range of how many people will continue volunteering in the future, it is sad to say that 50% are most likely not going to volunteer. Only 24% were sure that they would continue volunteering as they grow older. I also tested to see on a scale from 1-5 how busy people were on a daily basis, and 40% said they were pretty busy on a daily basis. This tested to see if they could make time to volunteer based on their schedules. In the end I asked everyone if they enjoy volunteering, and a staggering 88% responded by saying they love it!
  It was very fascinating to watch and evaluate everyones responses. It is sad to say that most people don't volunteer enough time because of their busy lives. Everyone in the world today is so overwhelmed with school work and jobs and getting their life together, that it can be hard to carve out time for others. Its important that we stop sometimes and take a break from all the work loads. Volunteering is a way of life and giving back to those who really need it. This survey has showed me that less people are volunteering these days. My survey was very successful and I hope to receive some more responses!

#11- Revised Summary/Plan Update

As a part of my research I sent out a survey to people between the ages 13-25 and so far it is going great! It really is a great way to see if people are active in there communities and what they're really doing. My research isn't completely over, but I can't wait to see the results in the end. At this point what I see is that girls and boys between the ages 13-15 do the least amount of volunteer work! I presumed that they would be the age group that would complete the most. But my research isn't over, so we'll have to wait and see what happens. I will also be printing hard copies to hand out to my friends that I am not able to reach. Many people that took this survey are not busy, so that is certainly not an excuse when volunteering. But what has been consistent in my survey was that everyone agrees that volunteering is important in giving back to communities. It is important to everyone that takes this survey to understand the importance of volunteering and its purpose. In conclusion I believe that this survey will turn out to be a success and it really makes me curious to see who volunteers more over the other. So far its 50/50, but will it stay that way through the end?

Volunteerism Survey

#10- Strategy Plan for Research

For my research I plan on doing an online survey. The survey will consist of at least 10 questions. I am going to test about 30-40, between the ages 13-25. Because I have a big gap in the age group, it will help my research to see which group volunteers their time more often than so. I think in the end I will find out that teenagers between the ages 13-18 volunteer less time in helping out. Where as when people get older, from ages 20-25, they will begin to see that it is a great benefit and amazing feeling in the end. Yes, some teenagers volunteer for their schools so that they can complete hours, but what I am testing to see is how many people volunteer on a regular basis without being told to do so.

#9- Suggested Research Method

What I have decided to do for my research method is to see how many people actually volunteer their time without being told what to do so. Ranging from the ages between 13-25 years old, I want to research how many people out of the age groups volunteer more time. Meaning which age group has more time on there hands to schedule time for volunteering. I myself know that being a junior in high school, I don't really have much time on my hands. But I always try to schedule myself accordingly. I am excited to find out if people volunteer more or less.

#8- Summary of Research

I have learned a lot throughout my research in volunteerism. It was amazing to read stories of people who dedicate their time to help those in need, and undergo self transformation in the process. Volunteering can truly change your life, and that's research you cannot find by looking on the internet, but by going out and doing it yourself. It is not just targeted to students in high school who need to complete a certain set of hours, it is meant for everyone. You truly are never too old or too young to help those in need. Volunteering can teach you basic skills of interacting with others, learning, loving and putting those in need first. If its working with special needs kids, tutoring children, volunteering at soup kitchens and even visiting nursing homes, you're doing something for another person. You understand that many people in the world today are struggling more than us and you want to help them more. The story about Rita really impacted the way I felt about volunteering because not only was she shaken by the 9/11 incident but so was everyone else. But what makes Rita different from everyone else is that she decided to make a difference in other peoples lives. That is exactly what we need to be able to to, step out of our comfort zone and go experience new things. I know from my own personal experiences that volunteering always sends me home with a smile on my face. My heart feels warmer and filled with joy, as if God is looking down on me and telling me that I did a good job. I love helping others and volunteering in anyway that I can. So get out there, experience life in a way you've never seen it before!

#7- Students encouraging volunteerism

In most high schools today volunteering has played a big role in becoming the person you are today. I for one enjoy volunteering greatly. I believe that it is a great way to do something good for your community and to also meet other people. It can open up your eyes to such amazing things that you thought were never even possible. Schools have made it their duty to inform students that performing hours of volunteerism is now mandatory. President Obama has officially designated September 11 as National Day of Service Remembrance. We remember all those lives that were lost, volunteering their time to help out those in need. Shouldn't we return the favor?
         In Fair Lawn, NJ students are encouraging their fellow peers to take part in volunteering. Places such as soup kitchens, nursing homes, collecting food to food banks and helping struggling students. Whatever it may be, take part in it. Do something that you know will make you feel better and also those around you. Students everywhere are beginning to see the upside of volunteering. It is a feeling of sensation and wonder when you know that you have done something that great. You shouldn't have to be forced into volunteering, you should do it willingly. All schools should greatly encourage all of their students to volunteer in their communities. Because once you start, you don't want to stop. So get out there and change the world, one helping hand at a time!

Article #1: http://www.northjersey.com/community/events/63024792.html

#6- Can volunteering turn your life around?

It has been said once before "Volunteering can change your life, in an extraordinary way". Now do we believe that this could be true? I for one most definitely believe so. It opens you up to so many dimensions in your life that you never thought were even there. It can change you for the better. Rita Weiner, a fellow New Jerseyian decided that after what happened in 9/11 she wanted to see what she could do in order to help out those that were suffering. She felt hatred towards the bombers, just like everyone else. Except she stood out from the rest of us. Instead of weeping about it, she decided that she was going to make a difference in someone else's life that needed her help.

         Her father gave Rita the idea of volunteering with the Salvation Army, and so she did. The people volunteering in the Salvation Army are one of the kindest groups of volunteers out there. They truly make a difference in peoples lives. Walter Stefanacci, Rita's father told her that when he was with the infantry during World War II, the Salvation Army delivered them blankets to keep them warm. They also told them that everything was going to be ok now, giving the soldiers a sense of hope to continue through. Till this very day, he still remembers the kindness that they had showed him. She quickly signed up and was then stationed in the Salvation Army headquarters in Union. The Army needed volunteers in New York on 30th Street at a medical examiners office, known as "the other Ground Zero". Immediately she offered her assistance to them every Thursday. Now keep in mind that this was only supposed to be a few hours each time. But Rita would work 12 hour shifts. She would go there at 12 in the afternoon and leave at 12 midnight. The joy it brought her to be able to sit down, feed and comfort these people was an experience that she would never forget.

          Rita enjoyed working there very much, she made a friend who was also working with her. Together they cooked for people, cleaned, served their meals and also gave them occasional hugs when needed. It gave Rita a better outlook on life, she had healed since the tragedy. The ambulance would bring people to them that had bodies so dismembered it was horrific to look at. The firemen would also sit down and take a break with the volunteers. They would feed them lunch and children from school sent letters for the firemen to read. Each time they read a letter tears came streaming down their faces. Rita says that looking back at it 10 years ago, she feels truly honored and blessed to have been able to be a part of such an amazing journey. Volunteering for the Salvation Army turned her whole life around for the better. 

Article #1- http://www.northjersey.com/community/129433333_Volunteering_was_the_path_to_healing_for_Rita_Weiner.html?page=all

#5- Volunteering over the age of 50

Wherever we go, if we look carefully we can find many people who willingly give their time in order to fulfill their inner desire to help others. Not all volunteers are teenagers, many of them are people who are well over the age of 50. Most people after they come to a certain age, they choose to retire from their job and do something that they have always enjoyed doing. Many of them decide to volunteer for programs either in their community or even abroad. It gives them joy to be able to help out others. After retirement you begin to explore a new journey in your life, a new chapter filled with opportunities. A great way to do so is to volunteer. You begin to open up to new people instead of closing them off. As old as you might be, you are truly never old enough to help out. Volunteering abroad can also be interesting. It can show you different cultures and make you more aware of your surroundings. They have such great spirits and work well with others during their time. The people in charge of the programs understand that these people might have others things to do as well so they'll give them flexible hours to what works best for them. Seniors can always be a great asset to the community because they can take on the role of a parent towards the younger volunteers. They have a positive attitude towards everyone around them and that energy radiates to the younger volunteers as well. These are people that make volunteering fun, they are always the ones that encourage others to do more. Make your retirement fun and exciting, by meeting new people and exploring the world of volunteering. 

Article 1: http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/retired-volunteer-abroad-programs

Article 2: http://www.oneoc.org/get-involved/rsvp-program/

Article 3: http://www.nytimes.com/1999/03/07/nyregion/those-who-retire-to-work-or-volunteer.html

#4- Career gateways through volunteering

Most people believe that volunteering is only done out of the goodness of ones heart. That is certainly true, but there can also be certain reasons as to why people volunteer their time helping out others. It can help you in your career, in high school/ college, volunteering can pretty much help you with anything. Volunteering teaches others and ourselves to be more loving and caring around those that we help. It teaches us social skills, how to a part of large groups, and to always treat others the way we want to be treated.
       Volunteering can have a huge impact on the career that you choose to be in. It can help you earn a job, or work better at the job you already have. It will help you get experience in areas of your interest and also meet the people in the field. Volunteering gives you the opportunity to practice and develop your social skills. It makes you see things in a different way and you become more open and aware to the things around you. Just because volunteering is free, doesn't mean that you only learn basic skills. Most volunteer organizations include extensive training in a certain field. The field that you choose to be in, say nursing, you can go and volunteer at hospitals or shelters to get a better feel of the environment. Directly volunteering with things that are hands on, are usually the most helpful. Even if you are not sure what you would like to major in, volunteering is always the right way to go. It can show and teach you things that you have never known before. I myself was unsure of what career path I wanted to go in. But through volunteering I have certainly come to see what I love. Volunteering can also help with people who are just getting out of college. Going into the corporate world, there are many senior- level people that have to be understood and related too. It can teach those people how to interact with their elders and how to respect them in a kind, professional manner. So if you want to get the job you love I recommend volunteering. It will never fail you.



Article #1: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/06/jobs/volunteering-offers-a-way-to-explore-career-fields.html?_r=1&
Article #2: http://www.helpguide.org/life/volunteer_opportunities_benefits_volunteering.htm

#3- Where it all begins

It all starts with you. Volunteering begins with a group of people working together to perform a certain task for others. Anyone that has ever volunteered knows that amazing feeling they feel in their heart when their done. We do it because we care for those around us. We do it to help our community. But most importantly we do it because we love it. I found a video online that showed different people that have volunteered speaking about how amazing it is to volunteer and what good it has done to them. When it comes to volunteering you must put your whole heart into it. People will know that you enjoy doing it and then they will enjoy you. Once you make that first move of wanting to help out, your whole life changes. You begin to see things that you've never seen before. You broaden your perspective on life and others as well. We volunteer because we want to. Not only are you helping out others, but you learn something out of it each time. We as human beings are designed to have compassion towards others. People just naturally love to help out because it is instilled in us. It is not a waste of time, in fact it is a time that you will always cherish. But you have to remember that it all begins with you. One person at a time we can help change the world, so when will your journey begin? 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wS6ObWC40b0

#2- The Spirit of Volunteerism

Just like everyone gets into the spirit of Christmas, we should also get into the spirit of volunteering.  Volunteering is done all year round. Being able to volunteer means you are fully capable of giving back to your community, with no reward in return. But the question is, why do people volunteer? Maybe its the feel of doing something good for others, to meet other people or even out of boredom. Everyone is called to help out in there community, it is a way to learn, live and love. We learn through experience. The more we volunteer the more we gain knowledge and learn for next time. Each time we face a new task, we can always grasp something out of it. We live through each moment. Life is short and that means we should live each moment with purpose. Make your life full of meaning and no regrets. Lastly, we learn to love. To be able to volunteer you must learn to love one another. Everything that is done through volunteerism, is done with love. Without love, whats the point? Knowing that you have done something amazing for another person, is one of the best feelings. It gives your life meaning and purpose and it teaches you how to work well with others in large groups. 

Over the past years, volunteering has increased in number vastly. According to the Bureau of Labor statistics, more than 60 million Americans volunteered for some type of organization during the years of 2006 and 2007. It is constant back and forth. Fortunately in the year 2012, 64.5 million people volunteered more. Now the percentages for men and women differ as well. It is well known that a higher percentage of women volunteer more than men, between the ages of 35-55. The number for teens volunteering has also increased dramatically. A number of 15.5 million teenagers have served in the past year of 2013. Teenagers between the ages 12-18 commit about 29 hours of service each year, while adults report 52 hours of service. Its a big difference. But the numbers shouldn't matter. What matters most is that people are getting into the spirit of volunteering and performing acts of kindness towards others. Its such a wonderful thing, to see so many people giving up their time to help those less fortunate. Even if its just an hour its enough, because you know that what you've accomplished was done for someone else rather than yourself. So lets all get into the spirit and start volunteering more, because theirs nothing better than seeing a person you've helped smile. 

Article 1:http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/08/business/08count.html?_r=1&adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1390851185-MQtHOuNJNEAvSmeL1RuqdA

Article 2: http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2013/12/08/from-memos-to-mistletoe-the-office-holiday-party/embrace-the-season-by-volunteering

Article 3: http://www.bls.gov/news.release/volun.nr0.htm

Article 4: http://msue.anr.msu.edu/news/youth_in_american_teens_as_volunteers

#1- Intro

The world that we live in today is not what we pictured it to be. It may seem deformed and un-perfect but hey, the least we could do is help make it better. Volunteering is just a small token of how people give back to their society. It is a lifestyle, a way that brings people together. This in fact is one of the reasons why I decided to research volunteerism. Most people don't see the beauty behind it, but digging deep is what will lead us to it.