The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others - Mahatma Gandhi
Reaching and going past that milestone in life which reads “retired” gives you the time to do something you always wanted to do, volunteer. Everyone appreciates a person who gives valuable time to a service and not expects anything in return. You could serve to various organizations, like;
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Teach underprivileged children at government-run schools
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Buddy up with other seniors to help ease their lives
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Help NGOs with their work
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Join groups for clean-up drives
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Tutor needy children online in your area of expertise
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Help with animal shelters – if you love pets
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Help organizations with the distribution of food
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Fundraise for a cause
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Distribute clothing to the poor through concerned groups
This list is endless. There is so much happening out there, that the organizations keep running short of volunteers. Seniors, with their wealth of experience, patience, and wisdom, can be priceless resources.
Did you know volunteering is good for you too?
It’s well-documented that not staying social and lack of physical or mental activity bring on age-related diseases faster upon us. And, that makes volunteering an excellent option to:
Remain in great shape socially, mentally and physically Connecting with social groups involved in volunteering work helps create new bonds, keeps conversations flowing, constantly stimulates the brain, keeps the body active and helps in overall cognitive functioning.
Feel the satisfaction of giving back to the community We always think of doing something for the society and for the needy.
Learn something new There is no age limit to learning. New activity and new experiences only push us to achieve something new and unconventional. This also helps in having more diverse knowledge and grow better as a person.
Keep the retirement blues away What better way to keep retirement blues away? The volunteer will help you stay busy and do something productive. Indeed, volunteering offers a richer-than-ever life experience.
There is time yet to discover that there is more to you –
These are a few volunteering opportunities that you can explore in India:
Sadhana village This village is located 30 km from Pune and mainly focuses on the education of intellectually disabled adults. Cultural activities, workshops, and community development workshops are organized by the volunteers. Accommodation is provided for the volunteers.
Mandor Project This NGO is associated with the Marwar Medical And Relief Society that focuses on improvement in infrastructure and education of local villages nearby. Various projects are handled by them. Click on Mador Project to know more.
Goonj Goonj is a very well-known organization that has helped thousands of children and people for education, health, environment, etc. Worked in 21 states across India, Goonj has been recognized on the national and international level for their tireless work for the betterment of people.
“As you grow older you discover that you have two hands – one for helping yourself, and one for helping others” - Audrey Hepburn
