We know many of you already volunteer in the community and are enjoying these experiences. However, if you aren’t currently volunteering, the benefits below may encourage you to start sharing your time and talents. 1. Provides a sense of purpose. Volunteering offers opportunities to become part of something greater than yourself. For instance, if you’re retired, unexpectedly unemployed, or have lost a loved one, helping others can give your life new meaning and keep you mentally stimulated. 2. Helps you meet new people. Volunteering is a great way to build friendships with people who have common interests as well as strengthen existing connections with friends, family, or coworkers. As a volunteer, you’ll typically interact with people from diverse backgrounds, which also allows you to learn other perspectives. 3. Improves self-esteem. When you do something you feel is worthwhile and valuable for your community, it gives you a sense of accomplishment that may help you feel more fulfilled about your life and proud of your achievements. 4. Brings fun into your life. Many people use volunteering as a way to pursue their hobbies while making a difference. For example, if you’re interested in the outdoors, you might volunteer at your community garden or help out at a children's summer camp. Volunteering for organizations or causes may provide you with a renewed sense of creativity and motivation that can carry over into your personal and professional life. 5. Helps you be happier. It feels good to contribute to projects that mean something to you, and these good feelings can help lessen the effects of stress, anger, or anxiety. What’s more, building bonds with fellow volunteers can help counteract any social isolation, and volunteer opportunities that involve physical labor can keep you active. BBC is deeply committed to giving back in our community, and our employees often volunteer — both as a team and as individuals. Follow us on Facebook to learn more. 5 Big Benefits of Volunteering February Includes Clean Out Your Computer Day Clean Out Your Computer Day started in 2000 as an initiative of the Institute for Business Technology and falls on the second Monday of February. The event reminds us to set aside time to do basic housekeeping on our computers, since they all need regular organizing and cleanup for the best performance. Over time, a computer’s unused files and programs can clog its memory and slow down its operation. What are some suggested activities for Clean Out Your Computer Day? • Delete old files that are no longer needed. • Organize your desktop’s files and folders. • Make sure you have the latest versions of your software and operating system. • Purge your inbox and email folders of emails that don’t need to be saved. • Safely wipe off your computer’s keyboard and screen. Remember, regularly backing up your computer’s data is essential. That way, in case you accidentally delete a file you later realize you need, you’ll have access to it. BUTLER-BREMER COMMUNICATIONS • 319 . 276 . 4458 • but l er-bremer. com
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