“You get as much out of it as you put into it”. That is how one SOS volunteer recently described her volunteer experience, adding that she looked forward to her volunteer shift every week. She’s not alone. Research has consistently found mental and physical health benefits are associated with volunteering. Volunteer Canada reports some findings on its website. One study states that volunteering lowers rates of stress, anxiety and depression. Another says it keeps your brain sharp, active and healthy, and yet another suggests that volunteering is one of the most empowering activities, as it focuses on the strengths of the individual.