Most adults want to make a positive difference in society, but struggle to find the time or the right opportunity. Volunteering offers a practical way to give back while also supporting your own health, relationships, and sense of purpose. For parents and other caring adults, donating your time can be especially meaningful when it aligns with values you hope to pass on to the next generation. One of the most impactful ways to do that is by supporting your local Scouting America council, during Volunteer Appreciation Month and throughout the year.

Below are some compelling reasons to volunteer that you may not have considered.

The Personal Health Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering is often framed as a selfless form of service, but research consistently shows that there are significant benefits of volunteering for those serving as well as the people or organizations being served.

Improved Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Volunteering is strongly associated with reduced stress, lower rates of depression, and improved overall mental health. The Mayo Clinic reports that helping others can increase happiness by boosting endorphins and creating a sense of purpose. Donating your time can also reduce feelings of isolation by fostering social connection and belonging.

Better Physical Health

Studies cited by the National Institutes of Health show that regular volunteering is linked to lower blood pressure, improved physical functioning, and even increased lifespan, particularly for adults over 40. Volunteers often engage in more physical activity simply by being more socially active and involved in their communities.

Stronger Social Connections

There are also plenty of social benefits of volunteering. Giving time in service of others helps adults expand their social networks beyond work and family. Shared service builds trust and camaraderie, which can be especially valuable for parents navigating busy and sometimes isolating schedules. Stronger social ties are also a key protective factor for long-term mental health.

A Renewed Sense of Purpose

Many adults find that volunteering restores a sense of meaning that can fade during demanding seasons of life. Contributing to something larger than yourself can help clarify your values and reinforce a sense of identity rooted in service.

Why Volunteering With a Scouting America Council Is Especially Meaningful

While there are plenty of reasons to volunteer in your community in any capacity, serving with a Scouting America council offers a unique opportunity to shape young lives while strengthening your own family and community.

Directly Shaping the Next Generation of Americans

One of Scouting America’s best volunteering benefits is that you’ll play a hands-on role in helping young people develop leadership skills, character, resilience, and a commitment to service. Adult volunteers support programs that teach youth to set goals, solve problems, and contribute positively to their communities. Few volunteer roles offer such a clear opportunity to influence lifelong values.

Flexible Roles for Busy Adults

Many parents hesitate to volunteer because they assume it requires a major time commitment. But councils offer volunteering opportunities in a wide range of capacities and time periods, including:

• Unit and assistant leaders (Scoutmasters and Cubmasters)
  
• Committee members who assist with various events and activities, such as fundraisers
• Merit badge counselors
  
• Other types of committee members who offer behind-the-scenes support
  

This flexibility allows adults to contribute in ways that fit their schedules, skills, and comfort levels.

Strengthening Family Bonds

Volunteering with Scouting America often becomes a shared family experience. Parents who volunteer alongside their children gain insight into their interests and growth while modeling civic responsibility. Family involvement reinforces trust, communication, and shared values, making volunteering a meaningful extension of parenting rather than an added burden.

Building Safer, Stronger Communities

Scouting America councils serve as community anchors, offering structured programs that promote inclusion, teamwork, and positive youth development. Volunteering strengthens local communities by building trust and cooperation across generations. When adults step into leadership roles, they help create safe, supportive environments where young people can thrive.

Personal Growth Through Leadership and Learning

Volunteering with a Scouting America council is not just about giving time. Adults often gain valuable skills in leadership, communication, conflict resolution, and mentorship. Volunteers receive training and ongoing support, making the experience accessible even to those without prior Scouting experience.

A Lasting Legacy of Service

Perhaps most importantly, volunteering with Scouting America allows adults to leave a lasting imprint. Adults who donate their time help sustain programs that reach thousands of youth year after year. The lessons taught today ripple outward as Scouts grow into engaged citizens, parents, and leaders themselves.

Volunteering is one of the few commitments that consistently gives back more than it takes. By volunteering with a local Scouting America council, parents and other adults can support their own well-being while helping young people build skills and values that last a lifetime. It’s a practical, powerful way to strengthen families, communities, and the future, all at the same time.

Volunteer With the Laurel Highlands Council

If you live in the western parts of Pennsylvania, Maryland, or West Virginia, volunteering with the Scouting America Laurel Highlands Council is your opportunity to help us empower the youth in our region to thrive and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Scouting’s programs and outdoor adventures give young people the opportunity to try new things, serve others, build self-confidence, and develop leadership skills. The Laurel Highlands Council serves youth members and volunteer adult leaders throughout western Pennsylvania, western Maryland, and parts of West Virginia. We aim to involve every eligible child and their family in the fun and adventure of our programs.

Parents can join Scouting too! Become a volunteer adult leader. There are many ways you can make a difference with minimal time. We are always interested in working with people who have a heart for Scouting and are willing to offer their time and talent to help.

Join us on this impactful journey to make a positive change in our community. Sign up today!