In a recent study, researchers observed that individuals who participated in community volunteering reported higher levels of life satisfaction compared to those who did not engage in such activities. Advocates for community service suggest that volunteering fosters a sense of connection and purpose, which may contribute to this increased satisfaction. However, skeptics question whether the observed correlation implies causation, suggesting that people already inclined to feel fulfilled might simply choose to volunteer.
To strengthen the argument made by advocates of community service, which of the following statements would be most helpful?