Is giving back to the community selfless if it makes you feel good? Who cares? Who said that you can’t give and feel good at the same time? The consequences of giving, being selfless and putting “we” before “me” will come back and bite you in the places you like to be bitten. It’s karma, she is not always a … meanie!

If you have the itch to volunteer but haven’t done it yet, maybe the following benefits can persuade you:

• Volunteering your time to serve in your area improves the community you live in. You set a good example for your kids, and it enriches your mind and soul. Three birds with one stone. Not sure why stoning birds is a good thing, poor birds!

• Some studies have proven that volunteering (even with pets and animals) helps reduce the effects of stress, anger and anxiety. Connecting to others has a deep effect on your overall psychological well-being.
• If you are feeling a little depressed, skip the Xanax. It turns out that doing things for others can build meaningful relationships and give you a sense of belonging and support that relieves depression.
• Scientists have measured hormones and brain activities of people while being helpful to others, and the results came back that it actually gives great pleasure. The more we give, the happier we get. Go figure!
• Doing good for others and the community also gives a sense of accomplishment, pride and identity. This increased self-confidence is likely to give you a positive view of your life and future goals. Who doesn’t need a little positivity boost in their life?
• If you are overwhelmed with your own problems, try focusing on the problems of others. It will take your mind off your own worries and keep you preoccupied.
• Studies have shown that those who volunteer have a lower mortality rate than those who do not. For older volunteers, walking more helps them stay active and keeps their thinking skills sharp. For others, you are less likely to develop high blood pressure, and it reduces the risk of heart disease.
• For younger volunteers, you could learn new skills that can be applied in the workforce, and it allows you to gain a new perspective on life. Whether you get a taste of hard work, or an in-depth look at the lives of lower-income families or the terminally ill, it just puts things into perspective.
• For the socialites, it just makes you look good.

Looking for places to volunteer in Lake Nona? The Ronald McDonald House welcomes families or individuals to make dinner for the house residents. Located at 3551 Nemours Parkway, 32827. Call (321) 319-4748 for more information.

This month’s poll to get to know Lake Nona residents:

Do you volunteer?

• Regularly
• During the holidays
• Rarely
• Never
• I wish I could

Submit your answers to this month’s poll by filling out the online form here: nonahood.to/askladynona. Your submissions will be anonymous.

Response from last month’s question:

If it weren’t for logistics, finances, and the kids, would you seriously consider divorcing your spouse?

No, I wouldn’t consider divorce. We’ve worked so hard to get where we are today in our relationship that I cannot imagine my life without him now. Early on in our marriage, there were a few times I considered it. Things were hard, we were young, and we fought a lot. There were a few times I didn’t think we were going to make it, and I wondered if I could handle being a single mom. But, we pushed through, we never gave up, and sometimes that meant we fought really hard. Now, we’re good. It’s been 22 years, and we’ve learned how to disagree in healthy ways while still being supportive of one another. We enjoy spending time together. We have our rhythm and we’re good for each other. He’s my best friend. I said that 22 years ago, but I didn’t really know what it meant back then. I do now.