I Have you ever volunteered to help your community, school, or a local organization? Many people don't! According to research, one reason is that they believe they don't have enough time. Without realizing it, we worry that volunteering will take too much time away from our personal lives or that we won't be appreciated for our efforts. So, instead of volunteering, we often do nothing.
II However, according to Dr. James Turner, a professor of social science, there is no reason to worry about volunteering. "Volunteering has great benefits for both sides," he says. "Our studies show that people who volunteer are usually happier and feel more fulfilled. It puts the volunteer in a good mood and helps build a sense of community. If we could just realize that there is no need to feel uncomfortable about volunteering, we could improve our lives and the lives of those around us."
III British researcher Professor Emma Harris has found that volunteering is an effective way to learn new skills and gain experience. "Volunteering helps people feel good about themselves and provides opportunities to develop skills that are useful in their careers. So, the person who volunteers is more likely to succeed in their professional life."
IV However, the researchers advise people to follow some rules when choosing volunteer activities. First, don't overcommit! The volunteer may feel overwhelmed and unable to meet their obligations. Second, ask yourself how well the activity fits your interests and skills. "It's important to choose a volunteer opportunity that you are passionate about," says Professor Harris. Therefore, only volunteer for activities that you find enjoyable and meaningful. Last, try to find a balance between volunteering and your personal life. It's best to start with a small commitment and increase it as you feel more comfortable.
V Both researchers believe, however, that we should stop worrying. Volunteering doesn't require special skills and we all have the power to make a positive impact. So volunteer! It is a wonderful way to help others and feel more connected to your community.
1. What do we learn in paragraph I? PUT A √ BY THE TWO CORRECT ANSWERS.
i) Why it is important to volunteer.
ii) Why many people don't volunteer.
iii) What people really mean when they volunteer.
iv) Why many people like to volunteer.
v) What many people are worried about.
vi) What volunteer activities people often choose.
"Volunteering has great benefits for both sides." (line 6)
Give a benefit for the volunteer and a benefit for the community, according to paragraph II.
(Volunteer).............................................................................................................................................. .
(Community).................................................................................................................................................... .
After volunteering, why might people be more likely to succeed in their professional life?
COMPLETE THE SENTENCE ACCORDING TO PARAGRAPH III. Because they ............................................................................................................................................. .
According to paragraph IV, what is one of the rules to follow when choosing volunteer activities?
(i) Never volunteer for more than one activity.
(ii) Never comment on your colleagues' volunteer work.
(iii) A volunteer activity should be enjoyable and meaningful.
(iv) A volunteer activity should take up all your free time.
What might someone feel if they overcommit to volunteering? (paragraph IV) ANSWER: ................................................................................................................................................ .
The researchers' conclusion is that (–). (paragraph V)
i) volunteering needs special skills
ii) people shouldn't be afraid to volunteer
iii) it isn't necessary to volunteer to be happy
iv) when you volunteer, you will feel powerful
What does the writer advise people to do? (paragraph V) ANSWER: .................................................................................................................................................. .
