After spending decades devoted to paid work, many older adults believe retirement is the time for them to do things they want to do, rather than have to do. One such activity seniors are committed to is giving back to the community through volunteering. Whether you’re looking to share an expert skill or simply seeking a way to get involved with others, there are many volunteer opportunities for retirees in your community. And, the best thing is, while you are helping others, you will be benefiting from the social, emotional and even physical health rewards of volunteering.
Here are some tips to keep in mind as you search for the perfect organization:
Consider Your Availability
Being a volunteer is a commitment. When trying to decide what appeals to you, consider how many hours you’re available each week or month. Some volunteer opportunities are better suited for people who are only seeking a few hours per month, while other organizations are looking for full-time help. Before you begin your search, decide how much time you’re willing to spend.
Next, determine what type of work interests you most. Let’s look at the top four most popular types of volunteer opportunities for retirees.
Hands-On Work
If you’d like to do something active, many organizations would be able to keep you busy and moving. A few examples include:
- Food banks. Food banks and kitchens often need people to stock shelves, fill bags, do deliveries and cook healthy meals.
- Community gardens. While most people care for their own plots, a community garden may need extra assistance—especially those managed by food banks.
- Sports teams. Whether it’s recreational or competitive, local sports teams often need coaches, league managers and administrative assistance.
- Groups that help the disabled. Local nonprofits that offer assistance to those with limited mobility often rely on volunteers to help with transportation to and from appointments, shopping or companionship.
- Healthcare centers. Hospitals are often looking for volunteers to fill many roles as well, from greeting patients to rocking babies.
- Schools may be looking for people to tutor and mentor their students, or to help with after-school programs and clubs.
- Animal shelters. If you’d prefer to work with animals, reach out to local shelters. These organizations often need people to walk dogs, cuddle cats and greet potential adopters.
- Hospice organizations are often in need of volunteers to offer support to patients, respite to families, bereavement support and more.
Administrative/Organizational Duties
Are you an organizer at heart? Do you like to make order out of chaos or organize events so things run smoothly? Your skills are in high demand to many charities and nonprofits.
Local charities or local branches of larger charities depend on volunteers to plan events or do administrative work. If this is your passion, this could be a great fit. Additionally, many organizations need people to sit on their boards and committees, offer business advice and organize other volunteers.
If there’s a cause you’re especially interested in, volunteering as an organizer can give you an insider’s perspective.
Entertainment
From schools to churches, theater clubs to fundraising organizations, it’s easy to find a place to share your love for entertainment. Whether you love to sing, act, share comedy or prefer behind-the-scenes duties, working in this space can help you reconnect to this passion.
Technology and Other Job Skills
If you were a former technology, financial or marketing professional, your expertise can be of great use to local service organizations. Website maintenance, newsletter development, grant writing, tax assistance and other services are always in demand.
You could also volunteer to teach your expertise at a senior center, retirement community, library or school.
Whatever you choose to do, the volunteering opportunities for retirees are abundant. Finding your niche with a local organization will not only help the community, it will reconnect you with the activities you love and help you enjoy retirement to the fullest .
Volunteering is just one way today’s older adults are changing retirement. Learn about other exciting trends in our eBook, Aging in Place: A Popular Trend for a New Generation of Seniors.
