Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to pause and reflect on everything we’re grateful for. And for many retirees, this season of gratitude can inspire a desire to give back. An organization with goals you care about may be looking for someone with your experience, free time or generosity, and this is the perfect time to find them!
Ideas to Quickly Get Started
If you’re not sure how to start and want some quick ways to give back, consider these short-term volunteer ideas to get your feet wet and start giving back sooner rather than later:
- Serve at Your Local Soup Kitchen or Food Pantry
At Thanksgiving, these places usually have tons of volunteers as we’re reminded of how blessed we are to have a table full of food. But these organizations run year round and would love to see you now and beyond the holidays! - Bring Home a Furry Friend for the Weekend
Does your heart melt at the wag of a tail or the press of a cold nose on your cheek? Consider checking your local ASPCA or animal shelter to see if they allow short-term fostering. Allowing a pet a chance to be in a home environment and away from the stress of the shelter will bring happiness to both you and your four footed friend.
- Beautify the Community
Have you noticed any areas in your neighborhood that could use a little personal attention? A quick pick up of trash off the street or from the local park not only makes a difference in the aesthetics of the area, but protects the environment as well. Or perhaps you can volunteer to plant flowers or refresh an area that’s been exposed to the elements for too long without a personal touch.
Volunteering is Good for You
Getting involved in causes that mean something to you, whether for short or long-term, can have benefits for you as well! It keeps you active and provides purpose and connection while making an impact on the lives and environment around you.
Here are just a few benefits of volunteering during retirement:
- Social connections – You never know who you’ll meet when you put yourself out there. Staying engaged with others helps you avoid isolation and boredom which can rob you of joy in your retirement life.
- Support causes you care about – What ideas or causes really get you excited? You get to choose! Find something to pour yourself into that will fill you with purpose and make the world a better place.
- Use your skills – You’ve had years of experience, and it shouldn’t go to waste! Share what you’ve learned with those around you or an organization you care about.
- Improve your health – Regular volunteering can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health! Lower blood pressure, reduced stress and depression as well as lower heart disease have been reported in those who volunteer regularly.
Get on Out There!
If the Thanksgiving spirit is motivating you to look around and see how you can be a blessing to others, there’s no better time than the present to embrace it and jump into volunteer work. It can become one of the most fulfilling parts of your retirement journey.
And while you’re focused on making the world a better place, let us focus on your finances. Schedule a complimentary review of your finances today to ensure your retirement plan supports the time, freedom, and generosity you envision.
