7 Holiday-Season Volunteer Opportunities For Seniors

The holidays are here, and that means it’s time to roll out the smorgasbord of holly-jolly festivities. For many, it’s also a time to roll up the sleeves and give back to those who may need a little cheer this time of year.

Whether you’re hitting the road to be with family and friends, or you plan on celebrating the season from the comfort of your own home, there are plenty of reasons to get out and volunteer. For starters, the rewards of volunteering are as abundantly beneficial to those who serve as they are to those being served. These rewards include, keeping up people skills, boosting self-esteem and, of course, sharing your talents.

So, however you choose to spend your holiday time, consider sharing some of it in the service of others. It may be just what you need to help make spirits bright. Here are a few opportunities that will surely welcome you with open arms:

Delivering Meals on Wheels

Many seniors are likely to spend the holidays all alone at home. In many cases, without the means or ability to get out and about. Meals on Wheels is a national program that supplies hot meals to shut ins or seniors who qualify. And the delivery is all done by volunteers—which means they are always in need of a few good drivers. Find out how you can help.

Help at a local library

Believe it or not, libraries need all kinds of help. And the ways to help are many. You could assist with children’s craft projects or story hour readings, tutor a younger person, or even teach reading classes. For those looking for something a little more behind the scenes, you could create bulletin board displays, repair books, or help with the re-shelving. Contact your local library to see what opportunities are available.

Become a docent at a local museum

If you’re a fan of history, science, art, cars, or whatever you might find in a museum near you, there may be opportunities to lend a hand or even become a docent. Since many museums operate largely on private donations, the help is often appreciated.

Organize a community cleanup

You probably don’t have to think too hard about a local park, street, or unkempt yard in your neighborhood that could use a little love and attention. Weather permitting, organize friends and neighbors and get to work. Be sure to bring your own garden gloves, garbage or yard waste bags, and any other tools you may need to spiff things up. If necessary, contact your local city officials to notify them of your plans.

Work at a local food bank

The holidays tend to be busy for food banks since the need is greater and most see an increase in generosity this time of year. As such, increased help is often needed to make sure all the donated food products get properly sorted and dispersed to those in need. Volunteer duties can range from sorting to bagging/shelving to delivering.

Organize a clothing drive

There is always a huge need for warm winter wear in the community. Whether you’re giving used clothing, new clothing, socks, pajamas, coats and gloves, or even undergarments, the options are seemingly endless for what you can donate and where you can donate it. To fulfill more specific clothing needs, you might consider contacting your local foster care chapter, homeless or women’s shelter, or hospital.

Lend a hand at a local animal shelter

Let’s not forget our furry friends this holiday season. Rescue shelters are always grateful to have a helping hand, especially if it means finding loving homes for some (if not all) of their home-hopeful animals.

At Summit Vista, we realize your expectations for retirement are ever-changing. You want to maximize every moment, discover new possibilities and, most importantly, find the peace of mind to achieve a happy, healthy future that’s free of concern. We want that, too.

For more information about volunteer opportunities available at Summit Vista or the benefits of moving into our Life Plan Community, speak with your retirement counselor, or call (801) 758-3138  today.