Fall is often when I have more time to give some of my time to volunteer work. Last week I joined a group of local neighbors for maintenance work on rain gardens (also called bioretention beds or cells) that are installed in various places around my Washington, DC neighborhood.

Bioretention Bed/Rain Garden, NW Washington DC

These rain gardens were built under permits from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to help capture and filter out pollutants that accumulate in large quantities during rain and storm events. They're necessary to meet legal requirements and standards of the Clean Water Act. Maintenance of these rain gardens became complicated and misunderstood by some, so a new approach to maintenance was needed so the rain gardens could work as intended.  Environmental issues are personally important to me and I was happy that I was able to help out. It involved lots of digging and planting on a beautiful day.  

Partners and Volunteers Going Over the Plan

Maintenance of Bioretention Beds

Social responsibility is often a driving force when it comes to volunteerism and charitable work; and it is for me. I have another volunteer event next month with the Owl Moon Raptor Center. This is an organization I try to volunteer with as much as my schedule and commitments allow. If you follow me on Facebook or Instagram you may have seen my posts about volunteering for them. They do very important work to heal, rehabilitate, conserve, or end suffering of injured or sick wild raptors when necessary. 

Volunteering with Owl Moon Raptor Center

Volunteering provides you with the opportunity to be a catalyst for change. Whether you're passionate about environmental conservation, social justice, education, or helping those in need, your contributions can have a tangible, positive impact on the lives of others.

Sometimes volunteering means stepping out of your comfort zone. As you step out of your comfort zone and take on new challenges, you'll develop skills, confidence, and resilience that can benefit you in all aspects of life.

Volunteering brings people together who share a common cause. You'll meet individuals who are as passionate as you are, fostering friendships and professional connections that can last a lifetime.

Numerous studies have shown that volunteering is linked to improved mental and physical health. It reduces stress, increases feelings of happiness, and even enhances your sense of purpose and self-worth.

Volunteering often leads to a deeper understanding of your own values and beliefs. It can help you clarify what truly matters to you and guide your life choices accordingly.