By: Angel Molekunnel, Manning School of Business Well-Being Leader
As a college student, managing academic stress, social life, and personal growth can be overwhelming. One often overlooked method of improving mental well-being is volunteering. Engaging in community service has been shown to reduce stress, increase happiness, and improve self-esteem. By giving back, students can find a sense of purpose, build connections, and develop valuable life skills.
UMass Lowell is recognized as a top research institution with R1 Classification, signifying its excellence in research and innovation. This commitment to knowledge and impact extends beyond academics, as the university also prioritizes community engagement and service-learning. Whether you’re looking to make a difference in Lowell or beyond, UMass Lowell provides numerous volunteer opportunities that allow students to engage with the community while boosting their own well-being.
How Volunteering Improves Mental Health
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety – Acts of kindness can release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of bonding and reduces stress levels.
- Increases Happiness – Helping others can stimulate the production of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of pleasure, satisfaction and motivation.
- Enhances Social Connections – Volunteering can build a sense of belonging and help students form meaningful relationships.
- Boosts Self-Esteem and Confidence – Contributing to a good cause can create a sense of accomplishment and personal growth.
- Provides a Sense of Purpose – Helping others allows students to gain perspective and develop gratitude for their own lives.
Ways UMass Lowell Students Can Volunteer
UMass Lowell offers many opportunities for students to give back to the community while improving their own wellness. Here are some ways you can get involved:
1. The Office of Community Relations
- UMass Lowell’s Office of Community Relations connects students with local non-profits, schools, and civic groups.
2. The Merrimack Valley Food Bank
- Located in Lowell, this food bank supports families in need and relies on student volunteers.
- UML students can help organize donations, distribute food, or assist with fundraising events.
- Check out The Facts to get involved.
3. Service-Learning Courses and Community Internships
- UMass Lowell offers FAHSS Service Learning and FAHSS Experiential Learning, which integrate hands-on community service with academic studies.
- These internships allow students to work in marketing, social media, program planning, volunteer management, research, and technology while gaining professional experience.
4. Lowell House of Hope
- Students can volunteer at House of Hope, which provides shelter and resources for homeless families.
- Volunteers can help with meal preparation, childcare, donation sorting, and administrative support.
5. Dwelling House of Hope 2025 – Walk for Hunger – May 3rd 2025 at 8 AM
- UMass Lowell students can participate in Walk for Hunger to support hunger relief efforts.
- How to Participate:
- Register here.
- Raise funds to help fight hunger and support the event.
- Join a team (organizations and programs can form teams to participate together).
6. Student-Led Service Organizations
- There are many clubs and organizations worldwide dedicated to community service, including:
- Circle K International – A student-run organization focused on leadership and service.
- Engineers Without Borders – Focuses on sustainable development projects.
- Habitat for Humanity – Helps build and restore homes for those in need.
- American Red Cross Disaster Training – Provides disaster relief and first-aid training.
How to Get Started
Step 1: Identify Your Passion
- Ask yourself: Do you love working with kids, the elderly, animals, or the environment?
- Decide if you want to engage in hands-on work or organizational roles.
- Consider what skills you want to develop through volunteering.
Step 2: Commit and Reflect
- Volunteering is most rewarding when done consistently.
- Reflect on how your contributions impact the community and your personal growth.
Volunteering isn’t just about giving—it’s about growing, connecting, and enhancing your well-being. As a UMass Lowell student, you have countless ways to get involved, whether through community outreach, environmental efforts, or mentoring programs.
By dedicating time to helping others, you’re not only making a difference in Lowell and beyond but also boosting your mental health, reducing stress, and creating lasting connections.
So, why not start today? Find a cause you’re passionate about and experience the many benefits of giving back!