I can relate

 The following was inspired by Ken Kuhn in the Tri-Cities Seniors Action Society Newsletter. Thank you, Ken.

Cooperation, Volunteering, and Civic Participation

It is cooperation, not competition that has allowed humanity to survive over the ages. Social Darwinism theory tied with the rise of libertarianism in the 80s has led us to believe that there are limited resources, and we suffer by helping others. It’s the foundation of this belief that if you are poor, then it is your fault. The super-rich benefit by seeing the lower classes fighting. The media reinforce the lie of exaggerated individuality and narcissism that we must fight hard against. 

We must say I will love my fellow humans, I will feed the poor, I will help the sick….and, if we all work together, we can have good lives full of plenty.

Most people we run into, are good people. No one wants anyone to go hungry, nobody wants people to go without medicine or seeing a doctor, living in a decent home, all the basic stuff. We should be able to provide for everyone.

Civic participation and volunteering are pillars of our community and can help people keep a healthy, active and engaged life. These benefits can be observed in older adults who build relationships while participating and volunteering that reduces loneliness and social isolation, but also improves their health and quality of life. Civic participation and volunteering aim to help others, solve community problems, or produce common goods or results. 

Such participation conveys the idea of social action, such as helping friends and neighbours, donating to a charity or organization, or volunteering for a community organization. Organizations in our community surely need you. Civic participation and especially volunteering seem to be the key to meeting the needs of older adults, exercise, building relationships, and healthy active aging. But beyond volunteering, you can also be an agent of change by defending a social, environmental, or political cause. 

Make your voice heard in order to influence decision-making processes. Our communities have civic elections coming this Fall so be sure you get involved and give that “seniors’ voice” to making our community “age-friendly--from 8 to 80 years of age or from stroller to walker” and making our communities safe for all--including older adults.