Whether you want to sharpen your skills, explore new career possibilities or simply make more friends, volunteer work is an opportunity to connect with others while doing something fulfilling. It’s also an important part of staying healthy in retirement, reducing stress levels and improving quality of life.
There are many different types of volunteer work, including helping family members (mowing your grandmother’s lawn or babysitting your sibling), donating money to charity, or participating in political campaigns without being paid. Nonprofit service, community outreach programs, and religious and spiritual groups typically host volunteer opportunities.
Animal lovers can volunteer at veterinary clinics, rescue centres and wildlife parks to feed and care for injured animals. Some volunteers can even adopt or foster animals, such as birds, possums and lizards, which involves taking them into your own home.
Volunteering boosts self-confidence and provides a natural sense of accomplishment. It can help older adults find new meaning and purpose in their lives, especially if they have lost a spouse or are living with a chronic health condition.
It’s best to choose a volunteer role that fits your abilities and interests, but it can be challenging to know where to start. You can look at your long term goals and decide on a dream job, then search for volunteer opportunities that will allow you to build the skills you need to land that role. Or you can search for opportunities that match your existing talents and passions, such as caring for animals or teaching children.
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