The Pikes Peak Chapter of Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) wants you! That's right. We want you. Our board is made up entirely by volunteers. Our board members are working in the public relations and communications fields locally, and dedicating a slice of their "free time" to their local professional development organization. Why? Because it's "good" to volunteer, and to be a part of something bigger than yourself.

But wait! Would you like more reasons? We're happy to oblige: (and after you read through this you are going to want to contact Joy Maples and sign up!)

​Here are six hidden benefits of volunteering you might not have have initially thought of: (We borrowed these from blog.techimpact.org)

1. Volunteers are 27% more likely to find a job after being out of work when compared to non-volunteers.(Source)
2. Volunteers without a high school diploma are 51% more likely to find employment when compared to those who do not volunteer.(Source)
3. Volunteers who live in rural areas, where there tends to be fewer jobs available, are 55% more likely to to find a job when compared to those who do not volunteer.(Source)
4. Volunteering helps to combat depression. A major contributing factor to depression is isolation and volunteering encourages consistent interactions with others.
5. Volunteering can help to increase someone’s self confidence and self-esteem. By volunteering, you’re being a part of something that’s bigger than yourself, and actively making the lives of others easier. If that does not make someone feel good, what will?
6. According to recent research conducted by the CDC, volunteering, especially among older people, can help to reduce mortality rates and help people live more fulfilling, longer lives. Volunteering has also been shown to combat the symptoms of chronic pain, and even heart disease.

​Contact Joy Maples for more information about volunteering with the Pikes Peak Chapter of PRSA.