20/10/2026
The Power of Giving Back: How SISEAP Volunteers Drive Real Economic & Social Change
Recently Volunteering Australia reported that volunteers contribute an estimated $200 billion to the Australian economy every single year? That is economic value, through unpaid care, leadership and community action.
Beyond the massive economic impact, science shows that volunteering triggers a natural "helper's high", reducing stress, boosting mental well-being, and combating social isolation. It keeps our mind and body active, builds career confidence, and connects us with purpose.
At Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific (SISEAP), our members know and live these benefits every day while creating lasting change for women and girls.
Our Impact in Action: Through dedicated grassroots action, SISEAP members contributed over 74,000 service hours, delivering approximately $8.6 million in value back into our communities! These actions benefited women and girls across 13 countries in our Federation.
Whether it's advocating for gender equality, mentoring future leaders, or supporting vulnerable women, every hour spent volunteering creates a ripple effect of empowerment and economic strength.
Volunteering isn't just an act of kindness, it’s an investment in a healthier, stronger, and more resilient society. But as powerful as that broad economic and community impact is, the most profound transformation happens at the individual level: in the lives of the volunteers themselves.
The study also found volunteering delivered “the Helper’s High” triggering positive neurological and psychological changes, reduces stress, lower cortisol levels and enriched sense of purpose. It combats “Loneliness” volunteering acts as a social outlet, mitigating health risks of isolation, reduced depression, and is “Active Aging”, regular volunteering provides structure, physical and mental active.
While the $8.6 million in economic value generated by SISEAP members represents a massive contribution to our communities, the true return on investment is measured in enriched lives, stronger personal connections, and the tangible health and happiness of every Soroptimist who steps up to serve.
To all our incredible Soroptimist members: thank you for putting heart, passion, and tangible action into every hour served!
Want to turn your passion into purpose? Discover how you can get involved with SISEAP and join a global network of women making a difference: www.siseap.org
