What positive effects do voluntary associations have? Why is the number of voluntary associations decreasing in the United States, and how is this being reflected in society?

Question

Please provide the best answer for the statement.

Answer 1

1. Voluntary associations are organizations that offer no pay for the work and time of
volunteers.
2. The benefits of being involved with voluntary associations include expanding one’s social
networks through interaction. This can lead to future rewards like new job opportunities.
Voluntary associations also contribute to change and help communities.
3. The number of voluntary associations is decreasing due to cultural shifts in the United
States. Communities are designed differently today, with less neighborhood interaction,
and people tend to spend more time at work, as well as traveling to and from work. Some
people also have to hold down multiple jobs to get by financially, which makes
participation in voluntary associations difficult. And communication has changed to where
many people communicate via social media rather than in person.
4. Decreasing involvement in voluntary associations leads to a more individualistic and
isolated society. It also leads to a decrease in social networks and a shrinking of social
capital.