MARCH 2025
THRIFT VOLUNTEER NEWSLETTER
Keeping our valued volunteers informed
GM’s Corner As I look out at the snow-covered cityscape, I am reminded that even though everything may look still and a little desolate, there is life underneath all that snow. The days are getting longer so we are getting more hours of sunlight now. I am thankful that spring is right around the corner! It’s important to practise thankfulness. Indeed, researchers found that having an attitude of gratitude can improve your quality of life and length of years. The power of gratitude: Being more thankful can extend your life, by Chris Melore based on the research from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (Credit: Helpguide. org) A positive outlook and volunteerism are also linked to greater satisfaction and a communal sense of purpose. “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead (I first saw this quotation at the Human Rights Museum in Winnipeg. If you’ve never been to it, I highly recommend it! :) ) “Volunteering can help you make friends, learn new skills, advance your career, and even feel happier and healthier.” by Jeanne Segal, Ph.D. and Lawrence Robinson on Helpguide.org. Helping others boosts your mood too!
Research shows that volunteering reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness and your risk of depression. Doing good can make you feel good. Experts say volunteering improves mental health by reducing stress, lowering anxiety and increasing feelings of purpose, accomplishment, and happiness. (Courtesy: Volunteering and health benefits in general adults: Cumulative effects and forms - PMC) I hope you all feel the love and gratitude we expressed to you throughout Volunteer Appreciation week. We truly couldn’t do this work without you, but with you, it’s a whole lotta fun and we’re helping a whole lotta people. Blessings to all for a happy and plentiful March!
PennyHanslien General Manager MCC Thrift on Mill