Now that many of us have received our vaccines and are working to put the recent health crisis behind us, it’s time to think about returning to activities that we love. Activities that have an impact locally or globally, like volunteering.
If we’re healthy and want to be sure that we keep ourselves and others around us healthy, then we’ll go about this approach in the most careful way possible. Whether your community or town has lifted restrictions or continues to keep masks as a requirement, it might be time to think about getting out there to help others less fortunate than ourselves.
Volunteering benefits not only those who you work with, but shows an increased benefit for the seniors who perform it. Mental and physical health benefits from staying active. Emotionally and psychologically, we benefit from doing good for others. Read on for some interesting opportunities to lend your services.
Table of Contents
Volunteer Opportunities
Locally
Foster Grandparent
Perhaps children are your passion. Grandkids haven’t arrived yet or live too far away from home? There are wonderful organizations that match seniors with children in the area and allow you to be a Foster Grandparent. Have a look on the AmeriCorps website here for more information to see if your community participates in this program.
Libraries, Museums and Art Galleries
Libraries, local museums and some art galleries are severely underfunded and are always looking for passionate knowledgeable people to bring art and education to the community. Do a little research and reach out to your local library or pop into your favorite art gallery to ask if they accept volunteers.
National Parks
If you love the outdoors and live near a National Park, this might be right up your alley! Some National Parks even offer an “artist in residence” program where you can showcase your passion. Click here for more information about volunteering at a National Park.
Local Clubs and Food Banks
If you have a club or foundation that is close to your heart, see if they accept volunteers. Handing out water bottles at a breast cancer run or organizing food drives for the local food bank is a precious way to give back to the community.
Globally
Road Scholar Experiences
Perhaps you love travel and are looking for something a little further from home? Road Scholar is a wonderful program that has local learning service programs and also has tremendous overseas opportunities for retirees. Find out more about their programs here.
Peace Corps
When most people think of the Peace Corps, we think of backpackers in their 20’s. But the Peace Corps has recently launched an initiative to attract volunteers of all ages. Giving back and supporting less fortunate communities isn’t just for younger folks! Have a read here for more information.
Virtually
There may be situations in which your more comfortable not leaving home. There are still many virtual opportunities to volunteer if you want to contribute from home. If you have internet and a computer, read on for some terrific opportunities:
MATTER
Matter is a “global nonprofit on a mission to help people launch projects that improve communities”. Find out more information here about their volunteer from home opportunities.
Points of Light
Points of Light is a volunteer network that has access to immeasurable resources and access to organizations that can help you get pointed in the right direction. Have a look here for more information about the largest global volunteer network.
Non-internet volunteer opportunities
Speaking with local agencies will give you an idea of what is needed. Perhaps organizing a clothing drive or knitting blankets and scarves for local shelters is more something you could offer.
Volunteering is not only good for others, it’s good for you. Cognitive benefits, sense of community and being connected, and staying physically active are just the some of the wonderful advantages you’ll gain, just by volunteering!
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Do you have questions about how you can better support your loved one while they age in place in South Florida or regarding homecare in general? Please contact CareGivers of America here: Contact or call us toll free: 800-342-4197
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