Living with a chronic illness like RA can be difficult enough in and of itself, let alone imagining being able to do something for someone else. The good news is that there are many ways that people with RA can give back to their community, especially if their symptoms are being effectively managed.

If you have never volunteered before, the issue of time commitment may cross your mind. Also, you may have questions about what you can handle physically. This is why it is important to talk with your health care provider about what volunteer activities would be best for you based on your current symptom status.

Below are some activities to get you started. These include low-impact activities that are easy on the joints, and options that provide enough flexibility for even the busiest of schedules.

Take a look:

	Answering telephone calls for a hotline
	Reading to seniors at a local community center or retirement community
	Serving hot meals at a local food bank
	Working at voting booths during election season
	Visiting hospitals or nursing homes to spend time with the patients
	Fundraising for a local charity
	Mentoring youth
	Driving older or disadvantaged citizens to doctor’s appointments and activities
	Leading an arts and crafts project or game night at local nursing homes or senior centers
	Volunteering at an animal shelter
	Joining a local gardening group or community beautification project
	Coaching, refereeing or supervising sports teams
Consult your doctor before beginning any volunteering program.