When we step outside ourselves to volunteer, mentor or lend a hand, we tap into a deeper sense of meaning that fuels well-being and longevity. Studies consistently show that people who devote time to others experience lower stress, stronger social connections and even longer lifespans. Giving back and volunteering contributes to the Thrive5© pillar of Purpose, defined as “find what fulfills you.” Purpose is not just about chasing personal goals—it’s about discovering fulfillment in service, gratitude and perspective. Volunteering becomes a powerful reminder that life is richer when it’s shared and that investing in others is also an investment in our own well-being.
Volunteering creates a sense of belonging, significance and feelings of fulfillment. This sense of purpose has been linked to reduced risk of depression, better cardiovascular health and greater strength against life’s challenges. Studies suggest that people with a strong sense of purpose live longer, in part because fulfillment reduces harmful stress responses and encourages healthier lifestyle choices. Giving back also cultivates social bonds, which are themselves a contributor toward longevity, as strong relationships provide emotional support, positive influences and reduce isolation.
Volunteering also brings gratitude and perspective. By stepping into the lives of others, we gain a deeper appreciation for what we have and a clearer understanding of the challenges, sometimes unspoken, faced by those around us or the environment we live in. This shift in perspective not only strengthens empathy but also reduces self-centered stress, helping us focus on what truly matters and giving meaning to life. Individuals who often think of others and serve tend to have a high sense of gratitude, which has been shown to improve emotional health, lower anxiety and even support better sleep—all factors that contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Beyond the individual benefits, volunteering supports a thriving community. When people give their time and energy to each other, they strengthen local organizations, expand resources and create networks of care that ripple outward. Dare County offers many opportunities to serve. Below are just some ways to get connected.
- Dare County Volunteer Programs – Includes Animal Shelter, Friends of Youth, Foster Parent initiatives, Home Delivered Meals, Outer Banks Senior Games, Parks and Recreation, and Special Olympics.
- Volunteer OBX – A hub connecting volunteers with more than 100 local nonprofits and community organizations.
- Habitat for Humanity of the Outer Banks – Helps build affordable housing for families in need.
- Albemarle Commission Senior Nutrition Program – Enrich the lives of older adults by providing nutritious meals and services that promote dignity, well-being, and independence.
- Service Clubs – Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis, and Jaycees all have active chapters in Dare County. Kitty Hawk Rotary | Kitty Hawk Rotary | First Flight Lions Club
- Dare Arts – Volunteer-driven arts organization offering gallery support, event staffing, and programming.
- Children and Youth Partnership for Dare County – Volunteers help with outreach events, KidsFest, Play & Learn Library, and activity kit distribution.
- Beach Food Pantry – Volunteers help stock shelves and unload grocery store donations.
- Food for Thought Outer Banks – Each week during the school year, folks are needed to pack the bags of food at the distribution center in Manteo, set up the food for the next week, and then deliver the bags to the schools.
- Surfrider Foundation Outer Banks Chapter – Join their “Adopt a Beach” or beach-cleanup campaigns, help with ocean and coastline conservation, plastic-reduction efforts, beach access for all to enjoy and public outreach.
- Outer Banks Health – Provide a personalized service to the patients, caregivers, families, visitors and team members at Outer Banks Health. Volunteers assist with the day-to-day operations of the hospital as well as help with special projects and initiatives.
- Outer Banks Hotline – Volunteers are an integral part of Hotline’s success. They are utilized in almost every aspect of our agency’s programs and are a vital part of Hotline’s team and delivery of services.
The Thrive5© pillar of Purpose reminds us that fulfillment is rooted in connection. Thriving is rooted in connection. By giving time and energy to others, we reinforce our own sense of meaning while helping our community thrive. Volunteering becomes more than charity—it becomes a pathway to personal growth, gratitude, perspective and extended life.
