Iowa County – April is Volunteer Recognition Month, with the week of April 19-25 bringing special focus to honoring volunteers. These times allow for recognition of those who give of their time and themselves to assist others.
Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) volunteers facilitate transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. SWCAP LIFT drivers offer transportation for work, school, medical, shopping, social events, and travel. The Iowa County Nutrition Program offers home delivered meals. This Southwest Wisconsin area is so fortunate to have these services available, and the volunteer drivers with each of these programs are a big reason for their success. Each of these programs is currently recruiting drivers.
Not only does volunteering benefit those who avail themselves of the services, but volunteering affords benefits for those who provide the services. Specifically, ADRC, LIFT, and Iowa County Nutrition Program volunteers have flexibility with scheduling and mileage reimbursement.
Additionally, they can help others, meet interesting people, and experience the actual health benefits of assisting others.
The National Institutes of Health(.gov), Mayo Clinic Health System, and www.heart.org identify mental and emotional benefits of volunteering:
- Reduced stress and improved moo
- Lower risk of depression and anxiety
- Enhanced sense of purpose and self-este
- Stronger social connections.
The Gerontologist magazine (on line) pinpoints health benefits of volunteering:
- Improved heart health
- Increased physical activity
- Lower mortality rates
- Better cognitive function.
We all know the heroes in our community that volunteer. The next time you see them, let them know how much they are appreciated.
There is always a demand for volunteers. To become a volunteer driver and/or learn more, please call: 608-341-0706.