Membership initiatives are integral to the sustainability and growth of nonprofits. Members give on a continual basis, making their commitment to the organization and their cause. Not only are membership programs crucial to nonprofits, but they also add value to those who give and their communities as a whole as people come together to improve their neighbors’ and community’s well-being.

Read below to learn more about membership and how you can get involved to ensure our communities flourish.

What is Membership?

Membership can take a variety of forms depending on the organization. For nonprofits, members tend to be donors who make a greater commitment to the organization. Typically, members receive benefits such as voting on the organization’s board members, receiving news and updates first and getting more of an “insider look” at the organization.

While these benefits are nice for donors to receive, they are rarely the reason donors decide to become members. According to Carter Skeel’s article, “In defense of membership programs,” “the act of giving expresses identification with a particular cause and a desire to join together with others in supporting it.” Donors give through membership because they believe in the cause the organization supports and the nonprofit itself. Members are the ideal donors of nonprofits because they have shown their commitment to their chosen organization helping nonprofits reach their goals of sustainability, donor engagement and community building.

Membership gifts are typically unrestricted, meaning nonprofits can use those funds wherever they need. This makes membership gifts invaluable to nonprofits because these gifts do not have restrictions that come from places such as grant funding. Having funds like this creates stable, sustainable funding for nonprofit organizations. Not only are these funds essential to nonprofits, but membership programs also build donor engagement and community as members interact more with each other and the organization as a whole.

Keep reading to learn more about the value of membership programs.

Why are Membership Programs Valuable?

Membership programs benefit donors, nonprofits and communities as people join together to support causes they are passionate about. Nonprofits rely on donors and their communities to help those in need. Ultimately, the partnership between community members and nonprofits creates positive change in communities, and membership is an effective avenue to accomplish that change.

Value to the Donor

Skeel further discusses why donors give through membership in his article: “Membership programs don’t motivate donors because they promise certain benefits—a book, a pin, a mug, and so on. No, they motivate donors through what those benefits convey about the importance of gifts at that level to the organization.” People give because they want to make a difference. When donors fully support a cause and find a nonprofit that does the same, they are likely to financially support that organization.

Membership giving opportunities align well with individuals’ desire to give back and help others. By supporting the organization as a whole, donors illustrate their trust in the organization and their dedication to the cause. Knowing their financial gifts are helping their neighbors and community inspires purpose and hope in their lives.

Value to the Nonprofit

Nonprofits benefit greatly from membership programs and gifts as well. As discussed above, having the flexible funding that comes from membership gifts promotes sustainability for the organization.

Donor retention (keeping donors from year to year) is also key to success for nonprofits and goes hand-in-hand with membership programs. HIVO’s article, “Maximizing Donor Retention with Charity Loyalty Programs,” explains how “donors who remain engaged over time can become more valuable to the charity. As they develop a deeper understanding of the organization’s mission and impact, they may be more inclined to increase their level of support or contribute in other ways, such as volunteering or advocating for the cause.” Members are ideal donors because they have already given a greater commitment, showing they are invested in the organization and its cause. Because of this, members are more likely to give year after year, further boosting the nonprofit’s sustainability as retaining donors is far more economical than finding new ones.

Not only are members essential to the financial sustainability of nonprofits, but most importantly, membership programs foster strong supporters who are invested in the cause and organization. Having support from community members allows nonprofits to build relationships and help even more people. Sometimes members will even volunteer their time, further impacting their community. However members give back, they continue to make a positive difference in their neighbors’ lives.

Value to the Community

Membership fosters community as people join together to support a cause they’re passionate about. This feeling of togetherness impacts communities overall as those who are involved in nonprofits tend to be more invested in their community as well.

Giving to nonprofits through membership can also add economic value to communities. In Barry Shore’s article, “The Impact of Giving Back: How Philanthropy Shapes Communities,” he states: “Philanthropy also contributes to economic development in local communities by boosting investment capital and creating new jobs. When people donate money or resources, they are indirectly investing in businesses that create job opportunities for residents. This influx of cash flow helps to fuel economic growth and stability in communities across the nation.” By giving through membership programs, donors impact their community overall as they invest in their neighbors and community’s development.

Read Kady’s story below to see the impact you can make in your community through membership.

Kady’s Story

Kady’s family was apart. While her children were staying in a safe place, Kady lived out of her car, searching for safe housing where they could all be together.

Thankfully, Kady came to TrueNorth and received multiple services to improve the well-being of her family. “It’s a blessing,” remarks Kady on the impact of the services and guidance she received from TrueNorth. “If TrueNorth wasn’t here I wouldn’t be here.”

TrueNorth placed Kady and her three children in a local motel where they could be together while Kady worked to find stable housing and a job that could support her family. Having guidance and encouragement from TrueNorth helped make this difficult time more manageable as Kady used her resources to move forward.

“Having her support and just knowing someone understood and can help…she never made me feel like I was asking for a handout, she gave me options and I explored my options,” reflects Kady on how her TrueNorth caseworker empowered her to advocate for herself and her family.

Kady was the one who found the place for her family with the support from TrueNorth. Having a new home for her kids relieved stress and anxiety from her as she was now able to look forward to her family’s future.

“My mental state, my anxiety…it was like way worse where I could function but I couldn’t process anything in my head because I didn’t know what was going on,” says Kady about the challenges she faced while finding housing. “I have peace of mind knowing we can all be a family and be together.”

Help Families like Kady’s through Membership

Today, Kady and her kids are safe in their new home because of caring supporters like you. Kady reflects on the impact of her time with TrueNorth: “I feel more stable, and I can push myself to actually do what I need to do instead of just stress…I’m very thankful for you guys.”

You can make a real impact on people like Kady. Not only will your membership gift help meet our neighbors’ needs, but it will also inspire hope for brighter futures. Learn more about membership opportunities below to make a difference today.

Transform Lives through TrueNorth Membership

TrueNorth offers a number of membership opportunities for you to invest in the well-being of our neighbors and communities:

• Friend: $25 – $99
• Patron: $100 – $499
• Community Partner: $500 – $999
• Community Pillar: $1000 – $4999
• Gene Cotton Circle: $5000 and above

Membership means you are supporting all of TrueNorth’s programs and initiatives. Your gift will not only help those in crisis situations like Kady, but it will also ensure that everyone in our community has opportunities to receive help, connect and give back.

When you become a member at TrueNorth, you will also have the opportunity to vote in the election of TrueNorth’s Board of Directors. We value you and your support and know that the more we work together the more good we can do.

Further our mission of inspiring hope and creating a better world by becoming a member today, for Good Happens Here, but only if we make it happen, together.

Volunteers are essential to vibrant communities. This is why National Volunteer Week is so important as communities come together to celebrate and encourage those who give back.

Read more to learn about the history and importance of National Volunteer Week, read stories of giving back and see how you can get involved this week and beyond.

What is National Volunteer Week?

This year is the 50th anniversary of National Volunteer Week–putting a spotlight on the impact and generosity of volunteers. According to GovInfo’s article, “History of National Service,” National Volunteer Week was established by President Richard Nixon in April of 1974 to celebrate volunteers and their impact. This movement has grown over the years as thousands of nonprofit organizations and communities throughout the nation recognize and inspire those who give back.

The 2025 National Volunteer Week will be celebrated from April 20 – 26 during Global Volunteer Month. Started by Points of Light in 2020, this global movement aims to further recognize and encourage volunteerism around the world. Celebrating throughout the month of April shows just how great an impact volunteers have on their communities as people gather together to thank those who continue to give their time to help others.

Importance of National Volunteer Week

Without caring people giving back, many communities would not have the support necessary to thrive. Volunteers make a difference in real people’s lives as they help fight food insecurity, guide the next generation, improve social health and provide essential resources among so much more. Nationally, “over 28 percent of Americans volunteered through an organization between September 2022 and 2023, an increase of five percentage points from the historic low documented in 2021,” according to AmeriCorps’ Volunteering and Civic Life in America Research Summary. This growth illustrates how more and more people recognize the benefits giving back has on their communities and even their own lives. See AmeriCorps’ chart below for a more detailed look at how people are engaging with their communities:

In Michigan, AmeriCorps notes that “2,141,460 formal volunteers contributed 138,630,397 hours of service through organizations worth an estimated $4.4 billion.” These statistics highlight just how great an impact volunteers have on their communities and the state of Michigan overall. Not only is National Volunteer Week a great time to reflect on volunteers’ contributions and positive effects but it also is an opportunity to further those impacts as we encourage others to give back too.

Read the stories below for an in-depth look at why people volunteer and how their lives and communities have been impacted by their service.

Stories of Giving Back

People can give back through a variety of avenues. One thing remains constant, however; volunteers continue to help those around them, ultimately improving the well-being of their communities.

Encourage Others this National Volunteer Week

You can ensure our neighbors thrive this National Volunteer Week and beyond. Whether you thank a volunteer or give back yourself, you can help inspire hope and resilience in your community. Learn more about how you can get involved at TrueNorth Community Services to make a difference below.

TrueNorth’s Volunteer Opportunities

At TrueNorth, we provide opportunities for everyone in our community to receive help, connect and give back. We offer a number of volunteer opportunities for people to renew purpose and help those in need, including:

• Agency Support
• Camp Newaygo
• Community Connections
• Hunger Prevention
• Youth Mentoring
• Special Programs & Events
• Call & Connect

You can transform lives just like Suzie and Diane. By coming together through volunteerism, we can secure the well-being of our neighbors and communities. Support our volunteers and give back today to be confident you are strengthening Michigan communities.

Art brings people together. Whether through music, theatre or the visual arts, rural communities that prioritize the arts receive numerous benefits.

Unfortunately, there are challenges rural communities face continuing and growing arts opportunities. Keep reading to learn more about the importance of the arts in rural communities and how prioritizing the arts can bring individuals and their communities even closer together.

A Look at Arts in Rural Communities

According to Mallory Shotwell’s article, “How Art Makes Us More Human: Why Being Creative is So Important in Life,” art’s “power lies in its ability to inspire, create joy and provoke thought. Art is an expression of the human experience, and its value lies in its ability to bring people together.” This sentiment illustrates the value the arts bring to individuals and their communities. For rural areas, this is especially important as these communities typically have less opportunities for the arts and connection in general than urban areas, making arts initiatives even more essential to build and sustain vibrant communities.

Rural economies are one of the main contributing factors to there being less arts opportunities available. The report, “Rural Prosperity Through the Arts & Creative Sector,” produced by the National Governors Association (NGA), National Endowment for the Arts and the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies discuss what challenges rural communities face when concerning the arts: “Many rural areas have unique cultures to celebrate, yet they are also contending with problems related to an evolving economy, including the loss of industry, outmigration of young and skilled workers, rising poverty rates, health and health care barriers, educational attainment gaps and physical and digital infrastructure needs.” With rural communities facing economic challenges, especially households living in poverty or with low incomes, the arts tend to not be a community priority.

Rural residents already face challenges such as lack of affordable housing and food insecurity, making the arts seem like a luxury they cannot afford. Unfortunately, this mindset overshadows the benefits individuals and communities can gain through the arts. Read below to learn more about the positive impacts art can have on rural communities and their residents.

Impact of the Arts in Rural Communities

The arts have a number of impacts on both individuals and communities. From individual health benefits to strengthened community connections, art can positively affect rural communities.

Individual Benefits

Individuals involved in the arts receive a variety of benefits ranging from improved physical and mental health to renewed purpose and expression.

Physical health benefits come from more active arts engagement such as dance and music. According to Gwendolyn Rugg, Jennifer Novak-Leonard and Michael Reynolds’ article, “The Outcomes of Arts Engagement for Individuals and Communities”, physical health improvements such as hormone levels, blood pressure, mobility and cognitive function can be improved through the arts. The article also notes that older adults who engage in more active arts participation receive health-boosting effects that help lessen their risk of “developing cognitive or physical health problems as they age.” These benefits show how the arts can influence health outcomes.

Along with physical health benefits, the arts also can impact individuals’ mental health. The Mental Health Foundation explains these benefits in their article, “How arts can help improve your mental health.” The article discusses how “engaging in the arts can help with major challenges, such as aging and loneliness. It can help to boost confidence and make us feel more engaged and resilient. Besides these benefits, art engagement also alleviates anxiety, depression and stress.” These benefits are extremely essential to the well-being of rural communities as residents face mental and social health challenges. Having avenues to express their emotions, share their stories and connect with those around them, creates both positive bonds and improved self-confidence.

All of the benefits discussed above also impact communities overall as healthy and engaged residents are key parts of vibrant communities. Read about Hanna, a TrueNorth Cultural Arts’ participant, below to see how arts programming has made a real difference in her life.

Hanna’s Story

Community Benefits

Rural communities experience a number of benefits from the arts. As seen above, the arts foster connection, helping residents feel invested in their community. Experiences like community art programs and projects bring people together with a common goal of creating art. The more involved community members are in their area, the stronger their relationships with the community, others and themselves will be.

There are also economic benefits to the arts. Many rural Michigan towns are tourist destinations that bring in revenue especially during the summer months. Having local arts opportunities encourages more people to visit and engage with the community, making it more likely for those visiting to come back again. This also promotes further connections in communities as residents engage with new people.

Support the Arts in Rural Areas

You can inspire young artists like Hanna. Whether you get involved in the arts in your community, donate to local programs or advocate for arts initiatives, you can help build vibrant communities. Learn more about TrueNorth’s Cultural Arts initiatives below.

TrueNorth’s Cultural Arts Initiatives

At TrueNorth, we strive to provide opportunities for community members to express themselves through the arts. Our initiatives focus on youth to ensure every kid has the opportunity to learn and grow in the arts. We offer a variety of programming as seen below:

• Middle and High School Student Art Trips to Museums and Exhibitions
• Guest Artist Workshop through the Art-In
• Newaygo County Art Exhibit and Art Scholarship Contest at TrueNorth
• Visiting Artist Workshops in each Newaygo County Middle and High School
• Piano Showcases on TrueNorth’s Steinway Piano

Each of these initiatives provides area kids with new experiences to learn, practice and perform different types of art.

“Anything artistic I also feel like obviously it’s a creative outlet but it allows people to sort of express themselves more than what words would,” reflects Hanna on how TrueNorth’s Cultural Arts programs have helped her express herself. “There are just emotions that you cannot capture properly as you would with like images or a 3D model.”

You can enrich the lives of young artists like Hanna by getting involved at TrueNorth. Make a caring gift or volunteer today to build and sustain vibrant communities.

Rising food costs and the increased cost of living continue to affect Michigan residents. This need for affordable and accessible food is even greater in rural Michigan communities as residents face unique challenges.

Keep reading to learn more about food affordability and accessibility, their impacts and how you can help your neighbors in need.

Food Affordability and Accessibility

While closely tied together, food affordability and food accessibility have different meanings and impacts. According to Jess Carson and Sarah Boege’s article, “The Intersection of Food Availability, Access, & Affordability with Food Security and Health,” food affordability can be defined as “the ability to purchase enough safe and nutritious food given demands on household income outside of food.” As this definition notes, the additional costs of essentials such as housing, heat, energy and healthcare also need to be considered when determining if food is affordable. Keeping the quality of food in mind is also important because everyone deserves to have the ability to purchase nutritious food for healthy living. It’s also important to consider food quality because everyone deserves access to nutritious food for a healthy life.

In contrast, food accessibility means “the ability to obtain food free from barriers posed by travel time, physical features of the area and store, neighborhood safety and transportation costs,” as defined by Carson and Boege. This definition speaks to the challenges rural Michigan communities face. A high percentage of rural individuals and families face barriers to purchase the food they need. From a lack of public transportation to limited store options where they can travel, there are a number of factors that affect if food is obtainable.

Read below to learn more about food affordability and accessibility in rural Michigan communities.

Rural Food Affordability

As discussed in the definition above, food affordability takes into account more than the cost of food itself. This is especially the case for rural residents as they face greater transportation barriers, higher housing costs and limited store options compared to urban residents. Carson and Boege further note the differences in food affordability in rural versus urban areas: “One national study found that households in rural counties spend 19 percent of income on food compared to 17 percent in urban counties. The same study found that compared to urban counties, rural places have lower household incomes, lower access to food retailers, higher shares of poverty and lower average SNAP benefits per participant—all of which were found to contribute to lower food affordability.”

Even in rural communities with lower living costs than urban areas, the gap between household income and the cost of food and essentials still creates a financial burden. This underscores the urgent need for food support to ensure residents have access to proper nutrition.

Below are four charts that show the living wage calculations and costs of typical expenses for Newaygo County households in 2024 and 2025. This data was gathered by The Living Wage Calculator and was last updated in February 2025. We selected Newaygo County because it is one of TrueNorth’s primary service areas, serving as a snapshot of rural communities in West Michigan.

2024 Living Wage Calculation for Newaygo County

2025 Living Wage Calculation for Newaygo County

2024 Typical Expenses for Newaygo County

2025 Typical Expenses for Newaygo County

Comparing 2024 to 2025 data shows an increase in required incomes and costs across multiple areas. Both food and housing costs have risen which means individuals and families will have less to spend on other necessities. While this is a broad estimate of the living wage and expenses for Newaygo County residents, these charts illustrate the financial burden rural residents face.

Rural Food Accessibility

Accessible food is critical to the health and well-being of rural residents. There are a number of factors that impact food accessibility as Isabella Pinerua discusses in her article, “How can we define food access?.” Pinerua further defines food accessibility as she breaks it down into three categories: economic access, physical access and social access.

Having economic access to food means individuals and families have the financial means to purchase food and the necessary materials to cook and eat it, as Pinerua defines in her article. This goes hand in hand with food affordability because if food is unaffordable then it will not be easily obtainable. Economic access should also not be limited to the cost of food itself, but it should also take into account the financial burdens that come with transportation to grocery stores such as gas and car payments. As noted earlier, rural areas tend to lack public transportation and are also spread out, making it challenging for people to buy food if they do not have access to transportation.

Transportation is also a factor when evaluating physical access to food. With limited grocery store access in small towns, people must decide between closer stores with higher food costs or larger stores with lower prices that are further away. Carson and Boege further emphasize the importance of transportation on food accessibility, stating: “Research consistently identifies transportation as a meaningful element of food accessibility, linking both lack and cost of transportation to food insecurity.”

Lastly, we should also consider social access when defining food accessibility. This takes into account the social, cultural and political factors associated with buying food as Pinerua notes. Social access will vary based on the communities’ and households’ cultures and social norms.

Impacts of Rising Food Costs

Rising food costs also impact food affordability and accessibility. According to Taryn Phaneuf’s article, “Food Prices Climbed 31% In 6 Years. Here’s Why,” food prices have risen 31% since 2019, as the title notes, and continue to rise because of “the combined impact of rising operating costs, supply-chain disruptions and corporate profits.”

Operating costs influence food prices. These costs can include: employees’ salaries, equipment purchases and maintenance, raw material purchases and fuel for vehicles, as Phaneuf explains. Combined with unavoidable events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and recent bird flu outbreaks, certain prices for items like eggs have drastically increased. Some corporations have added to this strain by raising prices and selling products in lower quantities for the same price to increase profit.

As food costs continue to rise, keeping food affordable and accessible remains a challenge, especially as incomes stay the same. This is why TrueNorth provides comprehensive Hunger Prevention programs and services to ensure no one in our community goes hungry. Learn more about these services and how you can help below.

Nourish Hope in Our Neighbors

You can help ensure everyone in our community has access to healthy, nutritious food. Whether you volunteer at a local food center, donate food or advocate for those in need, you can nourish hope in our neighbors.

Check out TrueNorth’s opportunities to make a difference below.

TrueNorth’s Hunger Prevention Programs

At TrueNorth, we believe everyone in our community deserves to have access to nutritious food to lead active, productive lives. We meet people where they are to help fulfill their needs while furthering them on their paths to self-sufficiency.

We offer a number of programs and services to provide our neighbors with the resources they need:

• Feeding thousands of individuals and families at our on-site Food Center
• Partnering with Feeding America West Michigan for a monthly Mobile Food Pantry
• Providing food to hundreds of students on the weekend through Weekend PowerPacks
• Gathering seniors together for a meal and socialization at our Senior Thanksgiving Luncheon

TrueNorth even works with local farmers and receive donations from individuals to provide fresh produce in our on-site Food Center. Through our food rescue initiatives, we collect food that would otherwise go to waste from large businesses in the community. Our goal is to build and sustain vibrant communities where everyone can thrive.

Take a look below to see how we helped our community in 2024:

You can continue these impacts when you get involved today. Make a caring donation or volunteer today to ensure our community flourishes. You can personally offer a hand up to our neighbors, ultimately impacting their lives for a lifetime.

Positive influences are integral to children’s development and overall well-being. This is why youth mentoring programs are essential to many kids’ growth and happiness. Having a support system kids know they can rely on allows them to flourish and become their best selves.

“I think it’s a really important program not just for the kids but also for the adults because, I think, it helps kids and adults stay in touch,” says TrueNorth volunteer mentor, Cathy, about the importance of the program she’s seen through her mentorship with her mentee, Cora. “I think it’s just an extra level of fun and it’s maybe nice sometimes to have somebody to talk to who’s like a third party but cares about you.”

Read below to learn about the need for mentoring programs, types of programs and their impacts and how you can step in and support the next generation.

Need for Youth Mentoring Programs

Many kids are in need of positive role models. According to MENTOR’s study, “Who Mentored You?,” by Micheal Garringer and Chelsea Benning, about 1.8 mil­lion young adults ages 18 to 24 nationwide ​“not only didn’t have a men­tor but couldn’t nom­i­nate any­one they felt was a mean­ing­ful per­son in their lives.” Garringer and Benning define a meaningful person in their study as “anyone with whom you spent time or who did a lot of good things for you, not including your immediate family or people that lived inside your home.” This definition was included in the study to ensure participants in the survey would include relationships outside their family that impacted them if they would not have initially described that person as a mentor. The study illustrates the need for mentoring nationwide to help ensure every child has a meaningful, supportive person in their life.

Michigan’s Need

In Michigan, there has been an increase in youth with mentors over the past few years, whether through a program or informally matched in the community. According to the Kids Count Data Center, funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, in 2022 to 2023, 94% of youth ages 14 to 17 report they had at least one mentor in the community who provides guidance. This statistic represents “youth ages 14 to 17 whose parent reported that there is at least one adult outside the home, in the youth’s school, neighborhood or community who knows the youth well and who can be relied on for advice” as Kids Count notes. In contrast, in 2016 to 2017 only 89% reported the same thing. While these numbers seem high, there are some disparities in access to mentoring opportunities.

Garringer and Benning’s study also found that youth living in poverty or rural areas were less likely to have mentors than those in higher income households and urban communities. This shows the importance of having programs like TrueNorth Community Services’ TrueMentors program that serves Newaygo County youth where there are high percentages of kids living in poverty in the rural community. Keep reading to learn more about the types of youth mentoring programs available and how they support local kids.

Types of Youth Mentoring Programs

There are a variety of youth mentoring programs available in Michigan. For the purposes of this article, the types of programs TrueNorth Community Services offers will be discussed, including: Community-based, School-based and Outdoor-based mentoring. Each program type works to support local youths’ development, providing encouragement and enriching experiences to set kids up for success.

Providing opportunities to connect with mentors and peers is essential to helping kids grow into their best selves. This is seen in the article, “Adolescent connectedness: cornerstone for health and wellbeing,” by Robert W Blum, Joanna Lai, Michelle Martinez and Cassandra Jessee, as they discuss how youth programs that emphasize human connectedness are the most effective in supporting youth’s health and well-being. The article defines connectedness as “a sense of being cared for, supported, belonging and closeness with others that comes from protective and sustained relationships within families, schools and communities.” While each type of mentoring program has unique characteristics from the others, all three program types emphasize relationship-building and connection to fully support youth. Learn more about these programming characteristics below.

Community-based Mentoring

Community-based mentoring matches kids with volunteers from the community. With TrueNorth’s program, matches meet about four times each month and spend a minimum of eight hours monthly together. This helps kids quickly form strong relationships with their mentors. Not only do youth receive the support they need, but they also become more involved in their communities as mentors take them on new experiences.

Blum, Lai, Martinez and Jessee discuss in their article how youth experiencing stronger connections with their community helps their growth. They note, ”For adolescents, such community connectedness is influenced by the quality of youth-adult interactions, opportunities for meaningful input into community affairs, a sense of safety in the community and being welcome in public spaces.” Having another trusted adult kids know they can rely on helps strengthen both their feelings of community, especially when mentors show that community is a priority in their own life. Ultimately, these mentoring relationships provide the support kids need to grow into the leaders of tomorrow. Take a look at Cora’s story below to see how her mentorship has impacted her.

School-based Mentoring

School-based mentoring programs like TrueNorth’s TrueBlue Academy and Lions Together allow kids to build relationships with their peers and mentors. Having a supportive environment where youth can learn and practice interpersonal skills, explore career paths and learn more about their strengths and interests helps kids grow into caring, confident leaders.

In these programs, kids interact with others they may not have classes with, helping broaden their friendships and perspectives. In doing so, youth have stronger relationships along with good social and emotional health as Blum, Lai, Martinez and Jessee note in their article. Having the opportunity to meet with mentors and peers during the school day helps kids become more connected and successful at school. Check out Jace’s story below to learn how his time at TrueBlue Academy has helped him grow.

Outdoor-based Mentoring

Outdoor-based mentoring in programs like TrueNorth’s Parks in Focus program gives youth opportunities to connect with nature, peers and mentors. This program also teaches kids photography skills as participants go on outdoor outings and learn to become comfortable within nature, through the lens of a camera. For many kids, these are places they may otherwise not have the opportunity to go to such as Michigan State Parks and National Parks.

According to Danielle Cohen’s article, “Why Kids Need to Spend Time in Nature,” “kids who play outside are happier, better at paying attention and less anxious than kids who spend more time indoors.” Not only does spending time outdoors impact youth’s mental well-being, but it also gives them opportunities to be creative and build confidence. Pairing time outdoors with group mentoring allows kids to explore safely, knowing they have the support of their mentors and peers. See how Parks in Focus has encouraged and supported kids like Neveah below.

Support Youth Mentoring Programs to Enrich Lives

You can make a real impact in the lives of kids like Cora, Jace and Neveah. Whether you donate or volunteer, you can brighten the futures of area youth. See TrueNorth’s opportunities below to make a difference:

TrueNorth’s Mentoring Opportunities

TrueNorth offers a variety of mentoring opportunities to volunteer in and support as seen above:

• One-to-one mentoring relationships through Community Mentoring
• Connecting youth to the outdoors through Parks in Focus
• Mentoring at school through TrueBlue Academy and Lions Together

Volunteers are needed for each program to help guide and encourage local kids. You can provide the support youth need to live and thrive. Learn more about TrueMentors to see how you can help the next generation flourish.

Support Bowlapalooza and Make an Impact

TrueNorth Community Services is holding its fourth annual TrueNorth Day of Giving to support Michigan communities. This 24-hour fundraiser works to bring awareness to the needs of our neighbors, illustrating how we can join together to give a hand up to those in need.

In 2024, 80+ programs strengthened over 30,000 individuals in our communities. Keep reading to learn more about this impact and how you can help continue these essential supports.

Community Impacts

At TrueNorth, we believe everyone deserves opportunities to receive help, connect and give back. We provide a variety of programs and services aimed at moving our neighbors forward on their paths to self-sufficiency. Ultimately, our goal is to build and sustain vibrant communities where everyone thrives.

See a breakdown of our initiatives below to learn how we can work together to secure the well-being of our communities today and for years to come.

Housing and Energy Initiatives

According to James Krieger and Donna L Higgins’ article, “Housing and Health: Time Again for Public Health Action,” individuals that experience stable housing and energy resources maintain a better quality of life. Having these essentials greatly impacts community members’ well-being and the health of the community overall. Check out the immediate and long-term impacts below.

Immediate Impact:

• Households with stable housing and energy experience improved physical and mental well-being.
• People have secure access to cooking capabilities, proper medicine storage, necessary technology and home lighting.
• Individuals receiving rent and/or utility assistance avoid financial crises.
• People with secure housing will have less barriers when seeking employment.
• Housed individuals are less likely to be exposed to harmful situations than those who do not have housing.
• Children experience healthier development when stably housed with their parents.
• Households remain warm and safe.
• People that have their basic needs met are then able to take further steps towards self- sufficiency.

Long-Term Impact:

• Individuals and families experience a better quality of life.
• Households depend less on community resources for day-to-day life, allowing services to focus more on those in crisis.
• People remain in their homes and experience less upheaval throughout their lives.
• Households with stable housing and energy have more effective health recoveries and higher life expectancy.
• Communities that integrate a housing-first approach to homelessness spend less overall on housing assists.
• Housed individuals are more connected and invested in their communities.
• Communities with energy-efficient households are better stewards of earth’s resources.
• People will be able to prepare for unforeseen circumstances and live more sustainably.

Hunger Initiatives

When children and individuals do not have dependable access to nutritious food, their physical and mental well-being declines, according to Feeding America’s article, “Importance of Nutrition on Health in America.” Not only is food security essential to people’s health, but it also affects the community overall. See the impacts of food security below.

Immediate Impact:

• Children develop physically, cognitively, emotionally and socially.
• Children maintain a healthy relationship with food.
• People have the nutrients necessary to prevent and manage mental health conditions.
• Workers have the sustenance needed to remain healthy and productive.
• Adults experience less health risk factors.
• Elderly adults maintain better health conditions.
• Families and individuals experience less financial stress.
• Community members reach higher levels of education and employment.

Long-Term Impact:

• Children succeed in school and transition well into adulthood.
• Children that start with healthy dietary patterns are more likely to continue them as adults.
• People experience a better quality of life through improved physical and mental health.
• Community businesses retain productive workers.
• Overall health care costs lessen for communities, businesses and individuals.
• Elderly adults remain independent sustainably.
• People with less financial stress support community businesses and causes.
• Community members increase their income over their lifetime due to further education and employment opportunities.

Youth Initiatives

The Family and Youth Services Bureau describes how youth can be set up for success through connection with “family support, caring adults, positive peer groups, a strong sense of self and self-esteem and involvement at school and in the community.” Focusing on these areas allows youth to grow into their best selves in a supportive environment. Take a look at the positive effects of youth development initiatives on communities below.

Immediate Impact:

• Youth experience a secure sense of belonging and a healthy mental state.
• Youth envision a positive future and develop a sense of purpose.
• Youth excel in educational and social experiences throughout their lives.
• Youth develop socially, mentally and educationally.
• Youth learn how to work with others by learning healthy communication and collaboration styles.
• Youth experience a healthier lifestyle due to education and prevention programs.
• Youth engage in creative thinking and problem solving that prepares them for their transition into adulthood.

Long-Term Impact:

• Youth who experience team-building and leadership programs have an increase in confidence, perseverance and responsibility.
• Youth mature into productive, well-rounded community leaders.
• Youth that instill healthy living practices continue them into adulthood, helping reduce lifelong healthcare costs.
• Youth become compassionate community leaders.
• Youth with healthy family systems continue that cycle as they become tomorrow’s parents.
• Youth who have quality educational experiences become skilled, employable adults.
• Youth who experience healthy relationships and communication habits as children continue the trend as adults.

Community Building Initiatives

Having safe, welcoming spaces and enriching opportunities creates a community that thrives. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people who experience quality social connections experience better health and feel encouraged to give back to their community. See below how community building initiatives strengthen our neighbors and communities overall.

Immediate Impact:

• Community members maintain better physical and mental health when experiencing social connectedness.
• Volunteers experience higher levels of happiness and connection to the community.
• Volunteers multiply their impact on the community through their service and the cost savings they provide the nonprofits they engage with.
• People create local networks in their community to stay connected in community happenings.
• Individuals involved in the arts improve their personal well-being along with creativity and problem-solving skills.
• Community and individual social capital enhances.
• People become invested in solving community problems.
• Community members work together to solve community issues.

Long-Term Impact:

• People experiencing social connectedness have an increase of trust and resilience in their community.
• Volunteers maintain improved health and well-being while also increasing the well-being of the community through their service.
• Nonprofits integrate volunteers into the fabric of their organization.
• Communities with informed individuals have a higher success rate of reaching their goals.
• Communities integrating the arts experience an increased sense of belonging that sustains community cohesion.
• Community development increases human and economic assets.
• People experiencing high social connection have increased levels of self-esteem and empathy, creating confident, compassionate community leaders.

Support TrueNorth Day of Giving to Strengthen Our Neighbors

The 2025 TrueNorth Day of Giving fundraiser will take place on Tuesday, February 25. Our goal is to raise $10,000 to ensure everyone has access to the support and opportunities they need to live and thrive.

When you make a gift on TrueNorth Day of Giving, you are furthering our mission of inspiring hope and creating a better world. Not only will you be helping our neighbors improve their lives, but you will also let them know they live in a community that cares.

You can make a real difference. Your generosity will have a ripple effect as many who receive help later give back to those in similar situations. Make a kindhearted donation today and be confident you are making a meaningful impact.

Safe, affordable housing is essential for the health and well-being of Michigan communities. Unfortunately, in many rural areas, there is a general lack of housing options and even less that are accessible to low income families.

Keep reading to learn more about housing accessibility and affordability in rural Michigan, its impacts and how you can help our neighbors secure the housing they need to thrive.

Affordable Housing Accessibility in Rural Michigan

A Look at Rural Michigan

According to Michigan’s Roadmap to Rural Prosperity, created by the Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Opportunity and the Michigan Office of Rural Prosperity, “rural Michigan is home to 20 percent of the state’s population and comprises nearly 94 percent of the state’s land area, boasting tremendous natural resources that provide sustenance to residents, drive our economy, are culturally significant and offer endless outdoor recreational opportunities.” This brief overview illustrates the significance of Michigan’s rural areas and communities. While the majority of the state’s population lives in urban areas, Michigan’s rural communities remain integral to the state’s prosperity.

But, what does the term “rural” actually encompass? Michigan’s Roadmap to Rural Prosperity defines the term rural in three segments: “a deep connection to natural assets, being more geographically remote and smaller populations.” This definition shows the key characteristics of Michigan’s rural areas. Understanding these characteristics is integral to seeing the unique challenges these communities face.

Access to Affordable Housing

There has been a lack of affordable housing in both rural and urban Michigan communities. However, because of the nature of rural areas, these communities face unique challenges when it comes to finding housing.

Because urban communities hold more of Michigan’s population by a wide margin, there are more developments and housing options. While this logic makes sense, there are still disparities when it comes to finding affordable housing in rural communities. Even when accounting for a lower population density, there still is not enough housing in these communities.

The National Low Income Housing Coalition breaks down a few of Michigan’s housing realities in the image below:

These key facts highlight Michigan’s need for affordable rentals. Households who are extremely cost burdened spend more than half their income on housing, leaving little left to afford other necessities. These households are also at a higher risk for eviction as the National Low Income Housing Coalition explains. Unaffordable housing can lead to instability as residents struggle to stay in their homes or find housing they can afford. Low income rural renters face these risks as they work to secure safe housing that will help them move forward.

Rural Renting Challenges

Not only is it challenging to find available housing in rural communities, but there is also a lack of affordable housing. This is due to a number of factors such as residential construction lessening, household sizes shrinking, older residents aging in place and housing being converted to short-term and seasonal rentals as the Michigan Roadmap to Rural Prosperity describes.

The report goes on to explain how residential construction lessened after the 2008 recession, even with housing demands rising in rural areas. Household sizes have also been shrinking, which has not helped the need for more housing. The report says “with fewer people in each household, household growth continues even with a stagnant or declining population, and more homes are needed even for the same number of people.”

With many of the older residents choosing to age in place, there has been less housing turnover and availability overall as well. Plus, many rural areas have popular tourist attractions leading to year-round housing being transitioned into short-term rentals and seasonal properties. While the tourism revenue can help communities, the transitioning of these rentals does not help year-round residents looking for stable housing.

All of these challenges contribute to the housing needs in rural Michigan communities. Continue reading to learn more about the impacts of these factors.

Impact of Rural Renting Challenges

With the lack of rental availability and affordability, unfortunately, many people live in unsafe conditions because they cannot afford anything else. Safe housing is critical to people’s overall health and well-being. The National Center for Healthy Housing lists what makes a healthy environment in their article, “The Principles of a Healthy Home:”

• Dry
• Clean
• Pest-Free
• Ventilated
• Safe
• Contaminant-Free
• Maintained
• Thermally Controlled
• Accessible
• Affordable

All of these characteristics create a home where its residents can lead healthy, safe lives.

Not only are the physical characteristics of a rental important to residents’ health, but the affordability of the rental is also critical to their well-being. According to Opportunity Starts at Home’s fact sheet, “Healthcare Advocates Are Housing Advocates,” affordable housing is “a prescription for good health.” The fact sheet goes on to discuss how those whose rent is more than 30% of their income struggle to afford necessities such as food, transportation, childcare and healthcare. No one should have to decide between putting food on the table or paying rent. These impossible decisions have negative consequences on individuals’ health and well-being, making it even more challenging for them to move forward.

Unstable housing can negatively impact physical and mental health for children, adults and seniors. Children especially are impacted as housing instability leads to poor developmental outcomes that can impact them later on, as the fact sheet describes. Ultimately, healthy and stable housing is integral to individuals’ well-being.

Help Our Neighbors Find Safe and Affordable Housing

You can make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors. At TrueNorth Community Services, we believe everyone deserves to have dependable resources and live in safe environments. We meet the essential needs of our neighbors because all of our community members need help, safety and security to live and thrive.

How TrueNorth is Helping

Our Housing Resource Center meets people where they are to ensure they have safe, affordable housing. We offer self-sufficiency services alongside our housing support services to best set up our neighbors for long-term success. These housing support services include:

• Securing housing for those in crisis
• Assisting households to find safer, more affordable housing
• Helping low-income households remain in their homes
• Providing emergency home repairs
• Providing foreclosure prevention counseling and pre-purchase homebuyer coaching sessions

All of these services ultimately work to keep our neighbors healthy and safe in secure housing. Take a look at Alyssa’s story below to see how these services can change the lives of our neighbors.

Alyssa Secures Her Home with TrueNorth’s Support

For TrueNorth Housing Resource Center participant, Alyssa, receiving support and guidance from TrueNorth moved her and her family forward.

Alyssa first came to TrueNorth because she was unable to afford her rent. She worked part-time to give her time with her two children, but work had become inconsistent for her husband. With the day-to-day expenses combined with rent, Alyssa’s family did not have enough to stay afloat.

Thankfully, Alyssa came to TrueNorth and received rental assistance along with guidance from her caseworker. From creating a realistic budget and seeing where her money had been going to setting short-term and long-term goals, TrueNorth has given her the tools to become more self-sufficient.

During this time, Alyssa searched for a full-time job that fit into her children’s schedule. She eventually found a third-shift job that fit her family and financial goals. These pieces coming together helped relieve the stress Alyssa faced, allowing her to be more present with her family.

Alyssa says, “When you’re really stressed for money and financial stability like every other aspect of your life including like the relationships with people in your home and your children and everyone, it just seems like it can be too much. So now that I am at the point where we are like financially secure, I know that I have a paycheck coming that’s enough to like cover my bills and expenses…it’s easier to maintain.”

Now, being at the end of the program, Alyssa is confident about her family’s future. She has started her new job and is taking steps towards the goals she and her caseworker created.

“I have a plan to hopefully buy the house that we’re in now by next year and I feel like that’s attainable, versus fearing being evicted,” says Alyssa.“It really helps set me up and get me in the proper mindset to be able to go out and continue to do this every single day and keep those short term and long term goals.”

How You Can Offer a Hand Up

You can make a real difference in the lives of people like Alyssa. Whether you donate, volunteer or advocate for those in need, you can be confident you are impacting lives for a lifetime. Get involved with TrueNorth today to help strengthen our neighbors and communities.

Social health contributes greatly to a person’s overall well-being. While many see socialization as just a form of enjoyment, there are numerous health outcomes that can be linked to social connection. Rural communities especially need to focus on social health as people face unique challenges connecting with the community and each other. Keep reading to learn more about social health, the challenges in rural communities and how you can help improve the well-being of others.

What is Social Health?

Kasley Killam defines social health in her article, “What is Social Health?,” as “the aspect of overall well-being that stems from connection and community. It’s about having close bonds with family and friends, enjoying a sense of belonging to groups, and feeling supported, valued and loved.” While the term “social health” is fairly new, it has always been prevalent as it greatly impacts overall health and well-being.

There are a number of factors that contribute to social health and connection. From types of relationships and individual attributes to community and social norms, a person’s social health is shaped through a variety of these variables. See the figure below from “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation,” the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community, to learn more about what influences social connection.

Health Impacts

Many understand the importance of connection in regards to happiness and quality of life, but the significance also extends to health. Killam goes on to discuss in her article how social health can impact mental and physical health and even determines “how well we live and how long we live.”

According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory, “the effects of social connection, isolation, and loneliness on mortality are comparable, and in some cases greater, than those of many other risk factors.” These include health risks such as smoking, drinking, high blood pressure, physical inactivity and even environmental risks like air pollution.

The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory goes on to discuss how having or not having good social well-being can influence health outcomes in areas such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, infectious diseases, cognitive function, depression, anxiety, suicidality and self-harm. This ultimately illustrates the importance of connection to others in regards to health and overall well-being.

Social Health in Rural Communities

Rural communities face unique challenges for social connection. Unfortunately, there is a stigma attached to loneliness, making it difficult to even identify individuals in need of more connection. Many who experience social isolation or loneliness do not see themselves in that light. Being able to help these individuals requires creative solutions to connect with and provide resources to improve their social health.

Jennifer Franklin and Carrie Henning-Smith discuss what other factors can influence social isolation and loneliness in rural communities in their article, “Approaching the Issue of Rural Social Isolation.” Many rural communities are spread out with residents living further away from neighbors, family and friends. Plus, with a lack of public transportation, it can be challenging for people to even leave their homes. A lack of access to technology and limited internet access can also negatively impact social health as Franklin and Henning-Smith note in their article. If people are unable to communicate over the phone or on the internet, it creates more obstacles for connection. This is especially the case for older adults who may not be familiar with certain technologies even if they have access to it.

However, while there are challenges in rural communities, there are still lots of opportunities for residents to build relationships. Understanding these challenges is essential to reaching out to those experiencing loneliness and social isolation in rural communities.

Impacts

Living in a rural community can also have benefits to social health. Smaller communities are typically close-knit and safer, helping residents form quality relationships with neighbors and other community members. Having social opportunities like TrueNorth’s Community Connections program and Volunteer Services are also essential to improving social health. See the two stories below to see how fostering relationships and renewing purpose can change lives.

How to Help Improve Social Health in Rural Michigan

There are a number of ways to help improve social health in rural Michigan. Whether it’s reaching out to those feeling isolated or supporting programs that work to boost connection, you can make an impact.

TrueNorth’s Social Health Initiatives

At TrueNorth Community Services, we believe that everyone deserves access to opportunities to receive help, connect and give back. Learn more about our social health initiatives below.

Community Connections

TrueNorth’s Community Connections program works to provide opportunities for all by creating safe spaces for people to connect with and serve the community. Community Connections is made up of caring individuals looking to form lasting relationships, share meaningful experiences and serve our community to help our neighbors thrive. With initiatives such as All Together, Community Friends and Coffee Connections, there are opportunities for everyone to get involved:

• All Together: This initiative brings people together through volunteerism and acts of kindness through special interest volunteer groups, such as Baking All Together and Knitting All Together.
• Community Friends: This initiative facilitates opportunities for community members to build relationships and engage in new experiences. From coming together to play cards at our Joker’s Wild group to going on seasonal day trips, there are a number of ways to connect with others and the surrounding area.
• Coffee Connections: This initiative provides opportunities for people to form meaningful relationships and engage with the community right from their apartment buildings. Residents at Newaygo County apartments meet on front lawns, in garages or in apartments, uniting neighbors who otherwise may not have the opportunity to meet.

To get involved or support Community Connections, contact Riley Knight at rknight@truenorthservices.org or (231) 924-0641, ext. 178.

Call & Connect

As one of TrueNorth’s Community Connections and volunteer initiatives, Call & Connect pairs volunteers with older adults in Newaygo County who would benefit from extra social connections. The goal of this initiative is to reach those experiencing isolation through kind words and encouragement.

For more information or to get involved with Call & Connect, please contact Charlie Forbes at cforbes@truenorthservices.org or (231) 924-0641, ext. 112.

Social health is integral to our neighbors’ and community’s well-being. By building relationships with those around you, you can greatly impact your own and others’ health. Make a real difference in the lives of people just like Renee and Diane when you get involved by donating or volunteering today.

January is National Mentoring Month–putting a spotlight on the importance of mentoring relationships. Youth need positive influences in their lives to succeed, and mentoring is a major part of their development.

Check out the rest of the article to learn more about National Mentoring Month, the importance and benefits of mentoring, youth mentoring stories and how you can get involved to ensure youth thrive.

What is National Mentoring Month?

National Mentoring Month aims to raise awareness of the importance of mentoring, recruit mentors and promote mentoring as a whole through celebrating meaningful mentor relationships. According to MENTOR, National Mentoring Month began in 2002 when “MENTOR and the Harvard T.H. School of Public Health created National Mentoring Month to amplify, encourage and strengthen mentorship for young people.” This movement puts a spotlight on mentoring, ultimately showing individuals and communities how one relationship can change a child’s life.

From holding awareness events to recruiting mentors and raising funds for mentoring programs, there are a number of ways to get involved and make a difference. Keep reading to learn more about the importance and benefits of mentoring and how you can support youth this January and beyond.

Importance of Youth Mentorships

Positive influences and role models are crucial for youth development and well-being. Unfortunately, there are many children and teens in need of mentorship. According to MENTOR’s study, “Who Mentored You?,” by Micheal Garringer and Chelsea Benning, about 1.8 mil­lion young adults ages 18 to 24 nationwide ​“not only didn’t have a men­tor but couldn’t nom­i­nate any­one that they felt was a mean­ing­ful per­son” in their lives. The study also found that youth living in poverty or rural areas were less likely to have mentors than those in higher income households and urban communities. This disparity of mentorship access shows the great need for mentors in low-income and rural communities.

Whether youth engage in mentoring through community programs or connect with a mentor informally, the most important part is having someone there providing support and guidance. Having a positive relationship with mentors helps provide youth with a sense of belonging and security. There are a number of benefits mentoring brings as seen below.

Benefits of Youth Mentorships

Youth with mentors experience life-long benefits from the relationship. Many mentors and mentees even stay connected as children grow into adulthood, continuing to influence and guide them as they navigate life changes.

According to youth.gov, youth who experience a mentoring relationship have:

• “Increased high school graduation rates
• Lower high school dropout rates
• Healthier relationships and lifestyle choices
• Better attitudes about school
• Higher college enrollment rates and higher educational aspirations
• Enhanced self-esteem and self-confidence
• Improved behavior, both at home and at school
• Stronger relationships with parents, teachers and peers
• Improved interpersonal skills”

All of these benefits set youth up for better quality of life through education, mental health well-being and social well-being. Mentors also can help provide new experiences youth otherwise may not have access to. This not only helps mentors and mentees bond, but it also helps youth grow outside their comfort zone and find new interests.

Mentors also experience benefits from their mentorships. Being able to see the world from a child’s perspective helps mentors gain a new perspective for the little things in life. Mentors also experience increased self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment as youth.gov explains. Knowing they are impacting someone else’s life provides a new sense of purpose, motivating mentors to continue to give their time to support their mentees.

Support Mentoring and Make a Difference

You can positively impact a child’s life. Whether you become a mentor, advocate for youth in need or donate to mentoring programs, you can help ensure all youth have access to vital mentoring programs.

January is National Mentoring Month, which is the perfect time to get involved. Learn more about the opportunities at TrueNorth Community Services to make a difference in your community this month and beyond.

TrueNorth’s Opportunities

At TrueNorth Community Services, we offer three mentoring initiatives in our TrueMentors program. Each program offers unique experiences for children who can participate in any or all of the programming opportunities listed below.

TrueBlue Academy

TrueBlue Academy is a partnership between TrueNorth Community Services, local school districts and police departments. This small group mentoring program provides learning and growth opportunities for students in Newaygo and White Cloud Public Schools.

TrueMentors’ Community Mentoring

For TrueMentors’ Community Mentoring, Newaygo County youth are matched with volunteer mentors in a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Matches are based on similar interests, geographic location and similar goals.

TrueMentors’ Parks in Focus

Parks in Focus is an outdoor-based group mentoring program run through TrueMentors with support from the Udall Foundation. Youth go on a variety of outdoor outings while they connect with nature through photography.

Seeing the impact mentoring programs like TrueMentors has on youth illustrates the importance of mentoring. You can impact lives for a lifetime when you become a mentor. From community mentoring to TrueBlue Academy and Parks in Focus, there are a number of opportunities for you to help area youth flourish. Get involved today to make a difference in the lives of youth just like Aiden, Kyrin and Danny.

With the New Year approaching, many people start thinking about their New Year’s resolutions. These can range from forming healthier habits to bucket list items. Volunteering is another great New Year’s resolution that will not only benefit you but will also impact your community.

Read below to learn more about the importance and benefits of volunteerism and what opportunities there are to get involved.

Importance of Volunteerism

Volunteering is one of the best hands on ways to make a difference in your community. Unfortunately, there are many individuals who struggle to put food on the table, find safe housing, keep warm and make ends meet. Giving your time through volunteerism can give the hand up our neighbors need to improve their lives for brighter futures.

Benefits of Volunteerism

Volunteering provides numerous benefits to the volunteer and their community. From finding purpose and improving personal health to helping community members in need, there are lots of reasons to add volunteering to your New Year’s resolutions list.

Benefits to the Volunteer

Volunteering provides physical, mental and social health benefits. These benefits are not contingent on the type of volunteering, so you can receive these benefits in whichever area you are passionate about.

Physical Health Benefits

Many volunteer activities encourage physical activity. Even just walking more throughout the day when you volunteer can have positive effects on your health. One of the greatest health impacts, however, comes from the social connections made by volunteering. Carnegie Mellon University discusses how quality social interactions can promote healthy aging, improve cardiovascular health and help reduce risks for negative health outcomes in their article, “Volunteering Reduces Risk of Hypertension In Older Adults, Carnegie Mellon Research Shows.” The act of volunteering with the addition of social connections helps those who volunteer improve their health and overall well-being.

Mental and Social Health Benefits

Volunteering also helps improve individuals’ mental and social health. Community Memorial Healthcare’s article, “Volunteering Is Good for Your Health,” explains how volunteering can help reduce chronic stress by being a positive outlet for daily stressors and worries while also reinforcing a sense of purpose. Plus, the added social interactions with other volunteers and workers aids in reducing loneliness and depression while increasing positive thinking, as Community Memorial Healthcare explains. Having a sense of purpose and community is crucial to individuals’ well-being, especially for older adults. Volunteering provides that sense of purpose many need and crave–ultimately improving individuals’ physical, mental and social well-being.

Benefits to the Community

Volunteering provides a number of benefits to the community as well. Of course, all of the positive health benefits discussed above will benefit individuals’ communities as their own well-being improves. Volunteering also impacts community members in need as they give individuals a hand up through their service. Volunteers are foundational to charities and nonprofits–helping more people receive resources and guidance through their generosity.

According to AmeriCorps’ survey, Volunteering and Civic Life in America Research Summary, “An estimated 23.2 percent of Americans or 60.7 million people formally volunteered with organizations between September 2020 and 2021. In total, these volunteers served an estimated 4.1 billion hours with an economic value of $122.9 billion.” This data only shows a glimpse of the impact volunteers have on their community as the greatest effects are seen in each life impacted by their service.

TrueNorth Community Services is greatly supported by volunteers. Check out the impact sheet below to see how volunteers are making a difference in their community.

Volunteer and Make an Impact this New Year

“I just highly encourage it [volunteering]. It’s just, to me, it’s a life-changing experience to be able to give back and help other people,” says Randy. You can make an impact on your community just like Randy when you choose to volunteer. Not only will you transform the lives of your neighbors in need, but you will also improve your own well-being in the process.

Take a look at TrueNorth’s volunteer opportunities below to see how you can help your neighbors and community.

TrueNorth’s Volunteer Opportunities

At TrueNorth, we have opportunities for all skill-sets and interests so you can find the best fit for you. Helping others can be as simple as being a smiling face in the Food Center, being a mentor to local youth, painting bowls, sorting toys or connecting with those who are isolated.

We have opportunities for Agency Support, Camp Newaygo, Community Connections, Hunger Prevention, Mentoring, Special Programs & Events among many others. See below to learn more about our Call & Connect program where you can make a difference in the lives of those experiencing social isolation.

Volunteer Opportunity Spotlight: Call & Connect

Are you looking to make a positive impact in your community? The Call & Connect program is seeking compassionate volunteers to pair with older adults in Newaygo County who could benefit from extra social interaction. By offering a friendly phone call, you can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide valuable companionship to seniors in need. Use TrueNorth issued mobile phones to connect with participants on a weekly basis.

Your time and kindness will brighten someone’s day. If you’re ready to make a meaningful connection, sign up to volunteer today!

For more information or to get involved with Call & Connect or any of TrueNorth’s other volunteer opportunities, please contact Charlie Forbes, TrueNorth’s Volunteer Hub Coordinator, at (231) 924-0641, ext. 112 or cforbes@truenorthservices.org.