Why do we volunteer? is a series to investigate our motivations behind volunteering and their biblical relevance. While we seem to seek opportunities to serve, we do so for a multitude of reasons. The series began with “Volunteering to love better,” followed by “Volunteering to invest your talents.” This week we’re exploring volunteering as a means to gain new skills.

The Bible encourages learning. Just look at Proverbs 1, which explains the entire book’s purpose; gaining wisdom and instruction, understanding words, receiving instruction, doing what is right, being cautious and using discretion, continually learning and guidance, and the list goes on. (Proverbs 1:2-5) It’s a book full of wisdom that comes from the experiences of others. Or as the book of Job explains: “Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?” (Job 12:12).

Wisdom is defined by Google as “the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment.”  The implication in Job 12 is that a long life includes a depth of learning experiences which bring about understanding.

Therefore, what better way to gain wisdom than by learning new skills through new experiences? When we volunteer, people often arrive at a place where they’ve never been before and meet people whom they’ve never met. Within everything new there is an opportunity to learn. This is why so many people volunteer to pad a resume: not only are you doing good in donating your time, but you benefit too! As a volunteer, take a chance and grow from the experience.

What are you hoping to learn?

Are there technical skills you want to improve? Perhaps there’s a volunteer position that requires computer skills and offers training. Maybe you’re not the best at conversing with others, and volunteering to simply talk with somebody who has nobody else would help you grow in that area. Have you ever wondered what it would have been like to grow up in a different class? Putting yourself in foreign situations can be uncomfortable, however it allows you to look at the world through a new understanding.

When you discard your own perspective and replace it with a willingness to learn, there’s no end to the things you could potentially do and add to our community.

You can see what volunteer opportunities we have available by visiting the volunteering page on our website or simply give us a call at 507-288-3663. If we don’t have something you’re interested in, we can certainly help point you in the right direction.

Check back next week for the next reason in Why do we volunteer?

Originally posted on RochesterSA.org.