I Want to Volunteer! Where Do I Start?

Joyce Remy

Carol, 75, is a retired science teacher who volunteers at the local arboretum. She measures the growth of plants, monitors the pest traps, and helps visitors identify plant species.

Ralph, 80, a World War II veteran, serves as a volunteer docent at the military museum near his home. Says Ralph, “When they’re looking at our collection of vintage tanks, the kids are excited to find out I served on a tank crew in France. They ask a lot of questions!”

When Elsa, 68, retired from her job as an urban planner, she began tutoring at grade school, helping immigrant children with their reading skills. Says Elsa, “This one-to-one sharing is new to me—and I love it, and the children!”

Volunteering: A Special Kind of Involvement

As you think about creating a life that is full of meaningful interaction with other people, consider the possibility of becoming a volunteer. The need has never been greater in all communities, and volunteering is a great way to meet new friends. Many worthy organizations rely upon volunteers. Fortunately, many retirees are answering the call, serving their communities, sharing their gifts, and helping others.

Do you have a special skill you can share? Can your work experience translate into volunteer activity? Do you have specialized knowledge or expertise? Volunteering in your area of expertise is a way to keep your skills sharp and your mind challenged.

Investigate the organizations in your community that welcome volunteers and provide training for committed individuals:

• hospitals
• schools
• community agencies (such as United Way, your senior center or public library)
• parks and recreation department
• churches and other faith communities
• cultural groups (museums, theaters, music groups)

To find an organization that can use your help, first consider…

• Your special skills
• Your work experience
• Special knowledge or skills you can share
• Your interests

No matter what your answers, if you have the desire to give of your time and energy, volunteer opportunities await you! A good place to begin your search is your local Senior Services office. A directory of local offices can be found through The Eldercare Locator (www.eldercarelocator.gov). Just enter your location and the Eldercare Locator will in most cases give you the website address and phone number.

Another rich source of volunteer ideas is U.S. SeniorCorps, which is part of Americorps, a network of national service programs that is part of the Corporation for National and Community Service. Opportunities include the Foster Grandparents Program, Senior Companions, and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).

The U.S. Government's FirstGov portal website includes Public Service and Volunteerism, a directory of organizations and government agencies that seek volunteers.

Vounteermatch (www.volunteermatch.org) is a non-profit online service that matches prospective volunteers with service opportunities in their communities.

The U.S. Administration on Aging also maintains a directory of volunteer opportunities, including contact information and web links.

© Caresource Healthcare Communications