May 2025
From the Desk of Amanda
I recently listened to an interesting podcast about getting older and what if it's actually time to say yes to new beginnings? Jonathan Fields interviewed Judith Viorst about her newest book, Making the Best of What's Left: When You're Too Old to Reupholster the Chairs. You may know Judith from her iconic children's book, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day At 94, she writes about what it really feels like to step into the final fifth of life and why it matters for everyone, not just those who are older. She also writes about grieving the loss of people, homes and independence while still finding wonder, purpose and joy. Listen on Spotify here or Apple here. No matter our age, we still have purpose and we can make a difference in this world.
As RSVP volunteers, you make a difference everyday in our community. Thank you for continuing to serve Durham. If you have a story to share, I'd love to hear about it. Please reach out by phone or email below!
RSVP Speaker Series
This month, we welcome Tammy Rodman from Reality Ministries for our Speaker Series It will be Wednesday, May 21 from 12:00 - 1:00pm at the Durham Center for Senior Life in the theater. Please join me to listen to Tammy speak about Reality Ministries Many thanks to Andrea Bowens from the Bull City Woodshop who spoke last month!
RSVP Group Volunteer Opportunities
Join fellow RSVP volunteers as we work together at different organizations Meet other volunteers and check out an organization that may be new to you. Welcome Baby Wed, May 28 10-12 Sign up here!
Aging Well Community Events
Check out these community events focused on aging happening in May.
If you have not connected with one of our 40+ stations and would like to learn more about volunteering with one of them, please reach out to me or visit HandsOn Triangle There are many volunteer opportunities out there and I would be happy to help you find a good place to serve!
Reach me by email at amanda@thevolunteercenter.org or by phone at (919) 3216932. Amanda Stoen
SEEDS
Founded in 1994, SEEDS is a two-acre urban garden and kitchen classroom in the heart of Durham. SEEDS develops the capacity of young people to respect life, the earth, and each other through growing, cooking, and sharing food Over the years, SEEDS has grown and developed to meet the changing needs of the community, particularly by adding programs for children and youth
Developing the capacity of young people includes responsibility, teamwork, leadership, environmental management, equity, community, problem solving and experiential learning. Their whole-child educational programming incorporates growing, cooking and sharing food to help young people become resourceful and confident individuals with the capacity and commitment to be future leaders in their workplaces, their families, and their communities.
Upcoming Events
Volunteer Workdays
May 14, 20, 31, 10am-12pm Sign Up Here
Queen Bee Bash Sat May 10th, 10am-2pm
serving mental health care in North Carolina and beyond The provide bilingual and culturally-responsive mental health services including therapy, psychiatry, substance use treatment, and case management in a welcoming environment of healing and hope. Founded as a volunteer project by Dr. Luke Smith in 2001 to address the unmet need for bilingual mental health services for North Carolina’s growing Latino immigrant community, we were incorporated as a nonprofit in 2004 El Futuro's mission is to nurture stronger familias to live out their dreams.
Due to the weather, the Mother's Day Kermes festival has been rescheduled to Sunday, May 18 from 4-7 pm. Volunteers are needed to help make the event a success. Sign up here!
Do you enjoy working outside and gardening? El Futuro is in need of volunteers to assist with watering plants and other gardening needs The work should take about an hour or two and days are flexible.
Museum of Durham History
The Museum of Durham History is a 21st century museum that uses stories about people, places and things to foster curiosity, encourage further inquiry, and promote an understanding of diverse perspectives about the Durham community and its history.
Volunteer with them at the Farmers Markets this spring and summer The Museum will be at the Farmers Markets the following dates:
May 4: Black Farmers' Market
May 24: Durham Farmers' Market
June 1: Black Farmers' Market
June 14: Durham Farmers' Market
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