Build New Habits in the New Year by Giving Back

Published On: January 7th, 2025By Categories: Community Support2 min read

For many of us, the new year is a time to assess our old ways and build new habits. A great habit to start in 2025 is donating your time as a volunteer. According to the Mayo Clinic, volunteering leads to lower rates of depression and anxiety and fosters better overall physical health. Are you thinking about creating a new habit as a Feeding San Diego volunteer? Here are some other great benefits.

A group of volunteers standing behind a conveyer belt in the Feeding San Diego distribution center

Stay Active

A common New Year’s Resolution is to be more active. Volunteering at Feeding San Diego is a great way to support that goal! Volunteer shifts at our distribution center are two hours long and involve various activities, including sorting and gleaning produce, packing boxes with pantry staples, or other similar projects. You can also volunteer at food distributions in the community. At our produce and mobile pantries, volunteers pass out food to community members. Volunteering with Feeding San Diego will have you lifting, carrying, and walking. In fact, a volunteer shift can help you meet your daily steps goal.

Make New Connections

If one of your goals for the year is to make new friends, volunteering is a great opportunity! You’ll meet a variety of people of all ages at a Feeding San Diego volunteer shift. It’s an excellent opportunity to chat and build meaningful connections with other generous people committed to helping end hunger. You can also deepen your current relationships by volunteering with friends and family! Anyone age six and up is welcome to volunteer at our headquarters in Sorrento Valley.

A woman holding a card that says "You Are Loved" standing next to a woman holding cereal bars at Feeding San Diego's distribution center

Feel Happier and More Connected

Studies show that helping others increases happiness. Helping others can increase self-confidence, reduce stress, anger, and anxiety, and provide a sense of pride and accomplishment. Volunteering regularly can also help you cultivate a sense of gratitude, which has a multitude of benefits.

Start Building New Habits Today

With a range of benefits, volunteering is a great habit to commit to in 2025. Feeding San Diego has a variety of options for volunteering. Whether you want to get active by signing up for a shift gleaning produce or focus on gratitude by calling donors, there’s something for you! Learn more about the options available and get started enjoying the benefits of volunteering.