As seniors retire, a vast reservoir of skills and knowledge is often left untapped. This expertise could greatly benefit the economy and enhance community life. Your professional experience can continue to define and express who you are through volunteering. Don't let your expertise retire with you.
Think volunteering is just for the young? Think again! I’ve found that lending a hand brings immense satisfaction, and it's backed by research. A study from the Australian Journal of Psychology noted that the more people volunteer, the happier they tend to be. It’s a straightforward formula: the more you give, the better you feel!
Reasons for Volunteering
It’s a gateway to a healthier life. Trust me, the perks are huge. From longer life expectancy to better physical function and even increased optimism, volunteering is a win-win. Think of it as your weekly dose of joy and health—less than two hours a week can transform your well-being!
You'll never feel isolated. Another study highlighted that volunteering is a powerful antidote to loneliness, which is a real concern as we age. It keeps your mind sharp and your social circle buzzing. After all, learning and growing don’t stop when you retire—they just take on new forms.
Carry on your professional legacy. Volunteering can continue your career narrative even after you’ve stopped working for pay. It’s about maintaining that professional identity and proving that your valuable contributions don’t just end. Keep making a difference, and you’ll never truly 'retire.'
What you do reflects your values. Engaging in community work showcases what actually matters to you.
Expand your horizons. Whether you’re deepening existing passions or discovering new interests, volunteering offers a platform for growth and exploration. There’s no time like the present to start or change your volunteer journey. Keep it fun and fulfilling, and remember, it’s all about enriching your life and those around you.
Making the Right Choices
Be picky about where you volunteer. Safety and ethics come first. If something feels off about an organization, trust those instincts and walk away. Choose a place that values your contribution as much as you do.
Know what you want to do before you commit. Whether it’s crafting or counseling, choose a volunteering role that resonates with your interests and strengths. So, why are you volunteering? Is it to mentor someone, help a community, or something else? Make sure the commitment fits your schedule and that the organization aligns with your personal and professional aspirations. It’s also smart to read up on the organization's mission and values—do they match your own?
Look for legitimate, reputable options. It’s best to align yourself with organizations that have a good standing and transparent operations. Use resources like VolunteerMatch or Idealist to scout for opportunities. Avoid places that sound desperate or too demanding—they shouldn’t treat you like just another set of hands. Ensure the organization is properly registered (look for 501(c)(3) status if it's a nonprofit) and check out what others have said about them. This includes seeing how they handle criticism.
Remember, you’re there by choice and bring valuable skills to the table. Your time and efforts are a gift, not just unpaid work. Volunteers are not free labor. Ultimately, volunteering should feel rewarding and energizing, not like a chore. Find an organization that sparks your interest and encourages your passion. Remember to stay flexible. Volunteering should remain a fulfilling choice, not morph into a burden. Feel free to switch roles or explore new avenues as your interests evolve.
Example: Foster Grandparent via AmeriCorps Seniors
If you’re over 55 and mentoring the next generation sounds like something that could be of interest to you, consider AmeriCorps Seniors. It offers a remarkable opportunity through their Foster Grandparent program. There, you can guide and nurture young minds, from infants to teenagers, including those facing disabilities or other challenges. It's all about molding futures and leaving impactful legacies.
Volunteering there changes the lives of these young people but it also enhances your own health and emotional well-being. The satisfaction of contributing to a child’s success can significantly boost your mental and physical health. AmeriCorps volunteers often report feeling healthier and living longer because of their service.
The program offers practical benefits too. From health and wellness improvements to a stipend for qualifying individuals, AmeriCorps ensures you gain as much as you give. Plus, you're covered with insurance and supported by a community that appreciates your commitment.
Engaging with children and other volunteers helps reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. It’s a chance to learn new skills or refine existing ones, amidst a supportive community. Remember, 88% of volunteers felt less isolated after joining.
So how about you step into a role that values your experience and wisdom, and see just how big of an impact you can make on both your life and the lives of others?
But, volunteering can be a curse. My late wife and i decided to volunteer when we retired 24 years ago. After a year we realized we working 60 hours a week and not receiving any money for our labors and that was what we had retired from....except we were getting big money when we were working. So we retired from volunteering except for three things, Commemorative Air Force, Politics, and an advisory board that meet monthly. The rest of our time goes to Gardening, LR Shooting,, Volunteer firefighter (recently retired from that after 15 years) My next volunteer will be to go to Mars. New wife says she isnt going......