Your social science snack for this month is on the benefits of volunteering!A study published in the journal Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly finds that strong social networks encourage donations & volunteering for secular causes as well as religious charities.

This is known as social capital: the values, social norms, trust, social ties and other social resources that help communities coordinate social and economic action. Individuals don’t simply do good on their own; they do so in response to their social connections.

Want a more in-depth look at how volunteering can help your business? Check out my article The Benefits of Volunteering for the Business Sector.