Keeping Busy Once the Work Is Through
Retirement comes after years in the making and is a bountiful reward for those who work hard. However, when they no longer have to go into the office or have a pow-wow around the conference table, it can lead to feelings of sadness and isolation. One solution is to volunteer free time and reach out into the community. Here are just a few reasons why volunteering is a perfect choice for retirees.
Volunteering Lets You Engage In Your Skills and Interests
Retirees may look forward to getting a little R&R when retirement arrives, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to engage in something stimulating, too. That’s why volunteering can be a great way to keep skills sharp and interests peaked. Explore organizations like:
- Building trades — Habitat for Humanity or local rehabilitation centers
- Cosmetology — Offer services for disadvantaged women or those affected by cancer
- Bilingual Support — Help those with language barriers overcome obstacles in schools and the workplace
- Health and Medical — Volunteer for a local hospice for respite care or support
These volunteer positions can be rewarding in allowing the retiree to still do activities of interest while expanding their skill set further.
Volunteering Fills Empty Time
Years on the job become routine and give people a specific purpose for getting out of bed each day. When retirement hits, days can seem empty and sometimes meaningless. For retirees who volunteer their services, turning that empty time into something positive and productive is rewarding and takes the place of the average workday.
Volunteering Makes an Impact on Others Lives
There is nothing more rewarding than making a positive impact on someone’s life. This starts with simply donating free time. Contacting a local United Way is a good place to find local volunteer opportunities.
United Way CEOs report that mentoring from volunteers is strongly needed to help build strong communities and break barriers. For retirees with a work history in social work and humanities, their time and effort can really make a difference.
Volunteering Doesn’t Interfere With Income Limits
For some early retirees, they fear that working another part-time job may affect their government or social security benefits. For those who enjoy the camaraderie and social aspect of working, volunteering is an alternative as long as their budget allows it. They get the same rewards as being in the workplace, just without a paycheck.
Volunteering builds character skills, provides mentorship and leaves a positive impact behind. For the retiree, this may be exactly what they are looking for.
~Here’s to Your Financial Health!
Copyright 2019, FinancialHealth.net
