Why Volunteering Might Be the Best Thing You Ever Do (Seriously)
Spoiler: It’s not just about tea-making and chair-stacking…
Let’s rewind to five years ago. Most of us were stuck at home, baking banana bread, trying (and failing) to do Zoom quizzes, and longing for someone, anyone, to chat to who didn’t live under our roof. It was during that weird, unprecedented time (remember that word?) that we realised just how much we all need community. Not just a WhatsApp group or a Facebook comment thread… a real, human, face-to-face connection.
But then the world opened back up, and… things weren’t quite the same. According to the UK Government (2020), compared to 2018, 23% of people did less formal volunteering after the pandemic. That’s nearly a quarter of us stepping back from community life when, ironically, we probably needed it more than ever.
Volunteering is Good for the Soul (and Your Health)
We’re not being dramatic; volunteering is genuinely good for you. Not in a “makes you look good on a CV” kind of way (although that’s a bonus), but in a scientifically-proven-to-improve-your-life kind of way.
During the first year of the pandemic, the global prevalence of anxiety and depression shot up by 25% (WHO, 2022). And what’s one of the things that can help with that? Yep, you guessed it, community. The CDC (2023) found that social connection can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, depression, and anxiety. Basically, community is the ultimate multivitamin.
So Where Does Volunteering Fit Into This?
Volunteering is one of the best ways to build that all-important community. At Louth Playgoers, we see it every day. Our incredible volunteers bring the magic of theatre to a part of the country that doesn’t have easy access to the arts. We offer brilliant entertainment at a fraction of West End prices (no offence, London), giving people joy, escapism, and a reason to smile, whether they’re watching from the audience or helping behind the scenes.
And the best part? Our volunteers aren’t just giving something, they’re gaining something too. According to BetterUp.com, community provides:
A support network (for life’s ups, downs, and backstage crises)
A sense of purpose (especially helpful after three hours painting a set wall)
Stress relief (who knew sweeping a stage could be so zen?)
New inspiration and unexpected friendships
Better communication and teamwork skills (helpful when wrangling props)
A surprising amount of resilience (yes, even during tech week)
Still Not Convinced?
Here’s the thing: volunteering isn’t just about helping out, it’s about belonging. It's about finding your people. Whether you're painting a set, sewing costumes, selling raffle tickets, or making a cuppa backstage, you're becoming part of something bigger than yourself.
And let’s be honest, we all need that. Especially after the past few years.
So, if you’ve been looking for a reason to get involved, let this be it. Join us at Louth Playgoers. Be part of the fun, the drama, the glitter, the occasional organised chaos, and, most importantly, the community.
We promise, it’s better than banana bread.
