When Should You Start Volunteering? The Best Time Is Now
Volunteering is a powerful way to give back to your community, gain experience, meet new people, and grow as a person. But many people—especially students and young adults—often wonder:
“When is the right time to start volunteering?”
The answer is simple: start as soon as you can. Whether you’re still in school, just starting university, looking for work, or already deep into your career, volunteering offers benefits at every stage of life. And research backs this up.
📊 What the Research Says
According to multiple studies and global reports:
- Early volunteering leads to long-term engagement.
The UK’s National Council for Voluntary Organisations found that people who start volunteering before age 18 are more likely to continue volunteering into adulthood.
- Volunteering builds essential skills.
A LinkedIn survey of hiring managers showed that 41% consider volunteer experience as valuable as paid work—and 20% of hiring managers said they had made a hire based on a candidate’s volunteer work.
- Students who volunteer perform better.
Research by the Corporation for National and Community Service (USA) found that students who volunteer are more engaged in school, have stronger leadership skills, and are more likely to graduate.
- Volunteering improves mental health.
Studies have shown that volunteering reduces stress, combats depression, and increases feelings of happiness and self-worth—especially in young people navigating life transitions.
📚 Volunteering in High School: A Strong Start
Volunteering in high school is a fantastic way to:
- Complete required Life Orientation hours
- Build a strong CV or university application
- Discover passions and career interests
- Gain confidence and leadership experience
Many South African schools encourage community service through outreach programmes, and platforms like Volunteer Now help students find verified opportunities that count towards their goals.
🎓 Volunteering During University or College
This is the perfect time to volunteer with:
- Causes that match your career goals (e.g., environmental science, healthcare, education)
- Organisations that give you hands-on experience
- Student-led groups or national campaigns
Volunteering in university can also help you:
- Network and make new friends
- Improve time management
- Explore social justice, activism, or innovation in real-world contexts
🧑💼 Volunteering While Job Seeking or Working
Even if you’re working full-time or looking for your next job, volunteering can:
- Help you build your portfolio
- Keep your skills sharp
- Show initiative and character to potential employers
- Connect you with people and opportunities in new industries
Many professionals also find fulfillment through skills-based volunteering—using their talents (like graphic design, marketing, accounting, or mentoring) to support nonprofits and community initiatives.
👨👩👧 Volunteering at Any Age
There is no expiry date on giving back. Whether you’re a retiree with time to share or a busy parent looking for family-friendly options, volunteering adds meaning to life. In fact, volunteering together as a family is a great way to teach children empathy, gratitude, and active citizenship.
✅ Signs You’re Ready to Start Volunteering
You don’t need tons of experience or time. You’re ready if:
- You want to make a difference
- You’re curious and willing to learn
- You have a few hours a month to spare
- You want to meet new people or explore new interests
- You’re looking for purpose, confidence, or connection
🚀 How to Start
- Think about what matters to you. (Animals? Education? Health? Climate?)
- Decide how much time you can commit.
- Use platforms like Volunteer Now to find safe, verified opportunities near you.
- Start small, stay consistent, and reflect on your experience.
💬 Final Thought
There’s no perfect age or stage to begin volunteering—only the willingness to start. Whether you’re 13 or 63, the right time to volunteer is now.
Every hour you give is a seed planted in your community—and in your own personal growth.
Volunteer Now. Because it’s never too early—or too late—to make a difference.
