Jan

26

Senior Volunteering

Posted by maureen

January 26, 2007 |

Empty nesters have a unique opportunity to share a lifetime of experience and talents by volunteering. It offers not only a way to enrich their own lives but gives them the chance to use their expertise by working in their communities or for organizations throughout the United States and internationally. Many consider it the most rewarding thing they have ever done and can give new meaning to retirement. There are so many options that you are bound to find one that meets your needs and commitment level. Here are a few suggestions:


Senior Corp

The Senior Corp was conceived during John F. Kennedy’s presidency and enables seniors to contribute their knowledge, and experience to become mentors, coaches or companions to people in need. They also contribute job skills and expertise to community projects and organizations.

  • The Foster Grandparent Program connects volunteers age 60 and over with children and young people with exceptional needs. Volunteers mentor, support, and help some of the most vulnerable children in the United States.
  • The Senior Companion Program brings together volunteers age 60 and over with adults in their community who have difficulty with the simple tasks of day-to-day living. Companions help out on a personal level by assisting with shopping and light chores, interacting with doctors, or just making a friendly visit.
  • RSVP connects volunteers age 55 and over with service opportunities in their communities that match their skills and availability. From building houses to immunizing children, from enhancing the capacity of non-profit organizations to improving and protecting the environment, RSVP volunteers put their unique talents to work to make a difference.
  • RSVPI is the International leg of RSVP

USA Freedom Corp

One of the special initiatives of USA Freedom Corp is “Get Involved” It’s aimed at increasing the number of baby boomers involved in volunteering service across the country. It encourages participation and directs boomers to find volunteer opportunitie

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat invites people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build houses together in partnership with families in need. Through volunteer labor and donations of money and materials, Habitat builds and rehabilitates simple, decent houses with the help of the homeowner (partner) families. Habitat houses are sold to partner families at no profit, and are financed with affordable loans. The homeowners’ monthly mortgage payments are used to build still more Habitat houses.

Peace Corp

President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps in 1961 to promote world peace and friendship. Peace Corps Volunteers work in a wide variety of areas —and no two days are ever the same. Many older Volunteers find their age to be an asset while serving overseas. They have the opportunity to share a lifetime of work and wisdom with people of developing nations who respect and appreciate age. And because there’s no upper age limit to serve, it’s never too late—Volunteers who are well into their eighties have served and continue to serve.


Network for Good
Network for Good is a network that will find local organization with volunteer opportunities that match your interests and geographic location.


Comments

1 Comment so far

  1. Roberto on February 11, 2007 10:27 pm

    I have been here in Ecuador for almost three years now. I now have an English School and small library in the community of Salasaca. I have been volunteering my time and resorces to get these projects started and you can read about my adventures on my blog. I now have one volunteer from Holland working with me and need another teacher soon.

    If you have any comments please get in touch by e-mail or comment on my blog.
    Roberto

Name (required)

Email (required)

Website

Speak your mind

<< Post Navigation >>

« « Failing Healthcare Systems | Miriam’s Tag » »