JUMP IN THE VOLUNTEER POOL

by Nikki Davis, MBA

When you ask a volunteer why they volunteer, they almost always tell you it’s because they saw a particular need and wanted to help.

Volunteering is nothing new. It traces back to medieval Britain when volunteers operated more than 500 hospitals to aid the poor and sick. In the U.S., Benjamin Franklin founded the first volunteer firehouse following a 1736 fire that burned several buildings in Philadelphia. The rest is history. People helping people comes in many forms. From home building and food service to virtual mentorship and personal assistance. There are many ways to give one’s time and talent. Just look around.

You might ask, “why would I work for free?” Because the satisfaction you get from volunteering is often the best pay you will ever receive.

What’s in it for you? Let’s dive in:

#1 HUMILITY: While we cannot control every aspect of our existence, we can practice greater awareness of our surroundings. Humble acts of service shift the focus from you to others and cultivate a path to mental and physical wellbeing.

#2 LONELY NO MORE: Inactivity can contribute to loneliness, not to mention isolation. Do not stagnate in a pool of loneliness, step out and help out!

#3 BELONGING: At some point in your life you may ask, “why am I here?” “What is my purpose?” Volunteering lets you find something you care about and do it. Make your mark!

#4 NEW FRIENDS: Studies have shown that those with the most social interaction in their community experience the slowest rate of memory decline. Start a book club, walking group or quilting bee.

#5 HAPPY AND HEALTHY: Lead a dance class, serve lasagna at the senior center, belt out an aria in the choir. When you get active, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease is lower, as chemical changes in the brain enhance your mood, thinking, and learning.

#6 GENERATIONAL CONNECTEDNESS: Boomers, GenX, Millennials, GenZ, can’t we all just get along? Absolutely! Young and old- er alike can benefit from each other’s fresh perspectives and insights for greater understanding and mutual respect.

#7 REKINDLED PASSION: Did you have a passion when you were young? Revisit it. Whether it’s working on hot rods, dancing, or crochet, someone shares your enthusiasm and wants to learn. Find a group or club (hint: The Club at WISE) to lend your expertise and engage others in the process.

#8 A WISER MIND: You are never too old to learn. Volunteering opens the door to new challenges and experiences that will keep your brain sharp (dare I say, RELEVANT!) with boundless learning opportunities and fulfillment.

If you are an older adult considering volunteer work, it is worth exploring the many opportunities. So, no more wading in the shallow end of life. Jump in!

For more information on volunteering with Wise & Healthy Aging, call 310.394.9871, or email volunteer@wiseandhealthyaging.org.