Belonging

Stepping into the world of volunteering as a teenager was intimidating. Not at the idea of helping others, but at the idea of meeting new people and socializing on my own in a new world. After an internal pep talk, I laced up my shoes and walked out the door. What I didn't know was that a few hours of handing out shoes would give me a new perspective. Looking back now, I understand that the act of giving your time to others has a way of giving something back to you, something that can't be measured in hours logged or tasks completed.

Shoes are for more than just walking.

Building connections can be difficult at any age. When I was in school, I often built those ties through extracurricular activities. My local church’s youth group was that pathway for me. The group was small, and at the beginning, no one really knew each other. One activity we focused on was volunteering. Something I hoped for, but never truly expected was the relationship-building and fulfillment that being in the group brought me. 

The shoe drive at the start of the school year was one of our bigger volunteer opportunities. I showed up for my shift, ready to hand out shoes for most of the day. I was nervous when I arrived on site, but I saw the group and walked over to the faces that would soon become familiar. We watched as families filed into the gymnasium and lined up, waiting for their turn to receive a pair of shoes for their children.

As the day carried on, my peers and I talked about weekend plans and new classes. Another girl and I bonded over our love of dance and our shared goal of making the high school dance team. Those connections made me feel confident. Over time, something deeper was happening, not just between the volunteers, but also between the people we were helping. We built trust by showing support for others. Not just by passing out shoes, but through quiet conversations and learning about them as people. 

Down the line, I overheard a little girl mention how nervous she was about school. She mentioned her teacher's name, and a bell went off in my head, realizing the teacher was the same one I had years ago. When the girl approached, I shared, “She will help you feel right at home on the first day. Plus, you aren’t the only new one nervous about starting school.” I motioned to my fellow volunteers, whom I was getting to know. “We are all starting a new school this year, and we are all a little nervous.” I was honest when I said this — volunteering gave us all the opportunity to learn more about each other. 

She smiled, “I’m worried about new friends.” Sounding like a parent, I told her not to worry; her teacher would help. Her parents ushered her along while leaning down. “See, everything will be fine.” They thanked me. Their child, clutching her new shoes — beamed with excitement — a new sense of hope washed over her and me. I knew in my gut I made a difference, not just in the moment, but in a girl's outlook on school.

The joy on her face was a strong reminder of what community and relationships can truly do. The importance of building social connections for health is supported by research from the Surgeon General: “As social networks grow in size, diversity, and strength, this produces greater levels of social support and social cohesion.” I have experienced the importance of each element mentioned at the shoe drive, and it has greatly impacted my life for the better. 

Key data from the Surgeon General’s report states, “Loneliness and social isolation among children can increase the risk of depression and anxiety.” Through volunteering with my peers, I was able to create ties and trust and not feel alone.  As the new school year loomed, I was riddled with anxiety, not knowing what to expect. The typical concerns about who I would sit with at lunch and whether I’d fit in raced across my mind daily over the summer. Thankfully, the volunteer outing reduced the stress and anxiety. The fear of being isolated from already built friend groups dwindled, and the idea of the first day excited me. 

The benefits of volunteering:

Looking back, I now understand the importance of those early moments, not just for the people we served, but for the person I was becoming. Choosing to step out of my comfort zone and serve others gave me friendships I wouldn't have found otherwise, a sense of purpose I still carry, and a reminder that showing up for your community always comes back to you in ways you don't expect.

When I volunteered throughout my life, the sense of fulfillment was something I could never let go of. When helping others face-to-face or knowing the work I was doing contributed to a bigger picture, the value was deeper than simply logging hours. My glass was full, not half full or half empty. I looked forward to the next opportunity to connect with my peers and community members. 

In today’s fast-paced world, people can feel left behind and overwhelmed by change. Research conducted by the Surgeon General mentions how social connections positively influence our health. “Adults across the globe rate their social relationships, particularly with family and close friends, as the most important source of meaning, purpose, and motivation in their lives.” Volunteering in your community can help build bonds between you, your friends, your family, and other community members, just like it did for me. 

The same report also shares that social isolation is harmful, especially to adolescents and older adults, due to increases in depression and anxiety. No matter your age, building friendships and connecting with others is important for your health. Volunteering is a way to build bridges and meet new people through events or activities you and others enjoy. 

You don't have to know anyone when you walk through the door. Although I do agree it can help. You don't need experience, a special skill, or a lot of time. You just have to show up. The child who walked away clutching a new pair of shoes that day had no idea she had changed something in me. That's the gift of volunteering; in giving, you receive something you didn't even know you were missing. Whatever cause speaks to you, I hope you'll find your own shoe drive moment.

Your community is waiting for you.