Empathy:
1. the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts, and experiences of another
2. the act of imagining one’s ideas, feelings, or attitudes as fully inhabiting something observed
~Merriam-Webster Dictionary
Volunteering offers more than just a chance to give back—it’s also a powerful way to build empathy. When we step outside our routines and connect with others in meaningful ways, we begin to see the world in a different way. Here’s how volunteering fosters empathy and helps us grow into more understanding, responsive humans.
It Builds Human Connection
At its heart, empathy begins with connection. Volunteering puts people face-to-face with individuals they might never otherwise meet. Whether it’s teaching technology to seniors, or mentoring them through their hearing loss journey, empathy grows naturally when we see the humanity in each other.
It Moves People Beyond Assumptions
It’s easy to form opinions from a distance, but being close to someone’s lived experience changes everything. Volunteering helps people move beyond stereotypes and assumptions. Instead of thinking “those people,” volunteers often begin thinking, “this person I just spent time with.” That shift can break down biases and replace them with understanding.
Listening Becomes a Key Skill
Empathy isn’t about fixing someone’s problems—it starts with listening. Through volunteering, we learn to listen with curiosity and compassion, without rushing to judge or respond. In environments where stories are shared, needs are expressed, or silence says everything, deep listening becomes a tool for connection and care.
It Encourages Perspective-Taking
Volunteers are asked to consider how others feel, what they need, and how best to support them. This practice builds emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize emotions in ourselves and others—and helps develop more inclusive, thoughtful behaviour in daily life. Working with seniors who are Deaf or hard of hearing, volunteers learn to adjust their lens.
Volunteers Reflect on Their Own Privilege and Growth
Through service, many volunteers begin to notice how systems, access, and language shape everyday life. For example, volunteers who work with hard-of-hearing seniors may see that the seniors are treated as less intelligent or a nuisance in public settings or amongst their hearing families. These moments of reflection challenge volunteers to consider their own experiences and the ways privilege shows up. Empathy grows deeper when we begin asking, “What would it feel like if this were my reality?”
Empathy Sparks Motivation to Act
True empathy doesn’t stop at feeling—it often leads to action. Volunteers who develop empathy are more likely to become advocates, allies, and changemakers. They show up not just to help, but to partner, listen, and co-create solutions. Empathy becomes the driving force behind movements for justice, equity, and belonging.
In the end, volunteering doesn’t just help others—it changes us too. It deepens our empathy, broadens our worldview, and connects us to a shared sense of humanity. That kind of growth is exactly what helps create a more compassionate world.
Get Involved
You can be part of this growth by volunteering with DHA’s Deaf & Hard of Hearing Seniors’ Social Support programs! Contact leslieb@deafandhearalbera.ca.