Giving one's time to an important cause can be a positive experience for everyone involved. Research has shown that volunteering makes people feel good. It can also help them develop new friendships. It can even have positive effects on their health. Even more important, the work that volunteers perform can also make a big difference in other people's lives. Many charities depend on the work of volunteers. Part of the Making a Difference series, Volunteering, Donating Your Time for Important Causes explores the many ways that people can perform this much-needed work.