SPONSORED CONTENT -- (StatePoint) Global Volunteer Month, celebrated in April, is a time to honor volunteers while encouraging volunteering in communities around the world.

This annual celebration is especially pertinent right now. According to a Pew Research report, only 54% of Americans feel a connection to others near them.

“Communities around the country are facing increased needs at a time when many people are feeling more isolated. Volunteering fills the gaps to strengthen community and the fabric of our society,” says Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO of Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to increasing volunteer service.

But as Sirangelo points out, volunteering doesn’t just build healthier and more equitable communities, it’s also good for the individuals who are lending their time and talents. “Engaging in volunteer activities has been identified as an effective way to build confidence, alleviate anxiety and depression, and provide a sense of purpose and connection,” she says.

Here are some ways you can take action this Global Volunteer Month and beyond:

Take the Pledge: Let your community know you are committed to volunteering and service by taking the Points of Light’s Global Volunteer Month Pledge. With nearly 50% of volunteer postings going unfilled, your participation can help meet critical community needs and ensure essential services are delivered. Already committed to a cause you care about? Take this opportunity to deepen your engagement. Commit to one extra volunteer project a month, or consider taking on a leadership position with an organization you work with.

Thank a Volunteer: Volunteers are the heartbeat of strengthening communities, and throughout the month, you can help recognize the vital role they play. Thank a volunteer or organization that is making an impact in your community starting on April 1 and throughout the month using the hashtag #ThankAVolunteer.

Spread the Word: Use social media to spread the word about the importance of volunteering using hashtags like #GlobalVolunteerMonth. To inspire others to take action, share your own volunteer story using #WhyIVolunteer.

Get Started: Not sure how to get started or where your efforts will make the biggest social impact? Visit Points of Light Engage, at engage.pointsoflight.org. This enormous database allows you to search for volunteer opportunities in your city or zip code based on your interests. Whether you’re volunteering on your own, with coworkers, or with family, you’ll be sure to find an opportunity that’s right for you.

“Volunteering is needed more than ever before. This April, we are urging everyone to join us in taking action. Lend your time, talent and passion to making a real difference in your own neighborhood and to creating a better world,” says Sirangelo.

*****

Photo Credit: (c) Dragos Condrea / iStock via Getty Images Plus