The Gift That Goes Both Ways

Today I look at how charities help seniors give back

We often talk about charities serving seniors as places where older adults go to receive help.

There is certainly truth in that. Seniors may need assistance with transportation, meals, housing, health programs, social activities or simply a place where they can go and feel welcome. For someone who is isolated, grieving, newly retired or struggling with a change in circumstances, a seniors’ organization can become an important lifeline.

But there is another side of the story that doesn't get nearly enough attention.

Seniors aren't just the people being served by these organizations. They are also the people doing the serving.

Walk into almost any seniors' centre or community organization in British Columbia and you will find older adults behind the scenes. They are answering phones, greeting newcomers, preparing meals, organizing programs, making coffee, delivering food, driving people to appointments, sitting with someone who needs company, raising money and helping another senior figure out how to navigate a complicated system.

In many cases, they are the engine that keeps the organization moving.

Take Seniors Services Society of BC, for example. Volunteers help with medical transportation, grocery support, friendly morning calls, fundraising events and other programs designed to help older adults remain connected and independent. The organization is actively recruiting volunteers because there is simply so much work to be done.

Then there is Care BC, where volunteers play a central role in programs such as Meals on Wheels. Volunteers don't simply leave a meal at the door. They provide a friendly hello, a brief visit and an informal check on the person's well-being. For someone who may spend much of the day alone, that few minutes of human contact can be every bit as important as the meal itself. Care BC puts it rather nicely: volunteers are the "heart and soul" of its work.

Seniors First BC offers another example. Its volunteers help raise awareness about issues affecting older adults and support educational programs dealing with subjects such as financial abuse, advance planning, government benefits, fraud and scams, and residential tenancy. These are not people simply filling time. They are using their knowledge and experience to help other older adults make better decisions and protect themselves.

And this isn't a new idea in British Columbia.

The provincial government has recognized for years that older adults are an important part of the volunteer sector. Its research has pointed to the benefits of volunteering for seniors themselves, including stronger social networks, improved quality of life, greater life satisfaction and a stronger sense of purpose.

That last point deserves our attention.

Purpose.

I have met many people who enjoyed retirement enormously during the first few months. No alarm clock. No commute. No boss asking where that report is. No Monday morning meetings.

What's not to like?

But eventually, some begin to miss something they didn't realize their working life had provided: a reason to get up and go somewhere.

Retirement gives us freedom, but freedom without purpose can sometimes become isolation.

Volunteering can change that.

It doesn't have to mean committing 20 hours a week or taking on another full-time job without a paycheque. It might mean helping at a monthly event, reading with a child, welcoming people at a seniors' centre, delivering meals, making phone calls, serving on a committee or sharing a skill you have developed over a lifetime.

The important thing isn't how many hours you give.

It is that you give something.

And there is another benefit that is sometimes overlooked.

Volunteering puts us in the path of other people.

That matters.

Friendships don't always happen because we decide we need a new friend. They happen because we repeatedly show up in the same place, work alongside someone, share a laugh, solve a problem or discover that we have something in common.

A volunteer shift can become a friendship.

A committee meeting can become a social circle.

A simple invitation to help can become the beginning of a whole new chapter.

I think this is particularly important for those of us who have spent most of our lives being responsible for somebody else. We raised children. We built careers. We looked after parents. We coached teams. We served on committees. We helped neighbours.

Why should retirement suddenly mean that all of that stops?

It shouldn't.

In fact, retirement may be the first time in our lives when we can choose where our experience, energy and compassion will make the biggest difference.

That's why I believe charities serving seniors should never be thought of simply as places where seniors go to receive.

They are places where seniors can contribute, lead, teach, encourage and belong.

The relationship is not one-way.

We help each other.

The senior who receives a ride today may be the volunteer giving someone else a ride next year. The person who comes to a seniors' centre looking for friendship may eventually become the person standing at the door welcoming a newcomer.

That is how communities are built.

And British Columbia has thousands of seniors doing exactly that.

So, if you are retired, or approaching retirement, and you find yourself wondering what comes next, don't ask only, "What can I get involved in?"

Ask another question:

"What can I give?"

You may discover that the answer is much bigger than you expected.

You may also discover something else.

While you are giving your time to someone else, you may find that you have received something pretty valuable yourself, a reason to show up, people to show up for, new friendships and a renewed sense that you still matter.

Because you do

From Helping Hands to Heartfelt Impact, How Seniors Make Volunteering Count

When you decide to volunteer, you’re doing more than giving your time,  you’re sharing your life experience, your empathy, and your perspective. Seniors bring something very special to volunteer roles: wisdom, patience, and a strong sense of community. But how can you ensure your efforts have a meaningful impact?

The answer lies in how you approach your volunteer work, with intention, respect, and reflection.

Organizations depend on volunteers to keep their programs running. Arrive on time, do what you’ve agreed to do, and take pride in your work. Even if your task seems small, your contribution matters more than you think. A friendly voice on the phone, a warm meal served, or a listening ear can change someone’s day.

If you can’t make a shift, let your coordinator know. That kind of communication shows professionalism and respect,  and builds trust between you and the organization.

Volunteering isn’t a solo effort,  it’s teamwork. You’ll work with staff, other volunteers, and the people you serve. Listen actively, share ideas respectfully, and be open to feedback. Many volunteers say that the friendships they form are as rewarding as the service itself.

Participate in meetings, attend group activities, and celebrate milestones together. When you volunteer, you’re not just giving back,  you’re joining a community of people who care.

Even as a senior volunteer, you’re never too old to learn something new. Many organizations offer training or workshops. Take advantage of them! Learning about cultural sensitivity, safety procedures, or the organization’s goals helps you make a stronger impact.

You can even keep a volunteer journal,  jot down what you’ve learned, the people you’ve met, and how you’ve grown. Reflecting helps you see the difference you’re making, and it may inspire you to take on new challenges or leadership roles in the future.

Every non-profit operates on trust. Keep information confidential, follow guidelines, and represent the organization positively,  in person and online. You are an ambassador for the cause you serve, and your professionalism helps strengthen its reputation.

At the end of each volunteer experience, take a moment to reflect. What impact did you make? What did you enjoy? What could be improved? Every bit of reflection helps you grow,  and it also helps the organization refine its programs.

Volunteering is about connection, with others, with your community, and with yourself. It’s about giving your time and heart where they’re needed most.

So, if you’re wondering how to make retirement more meaningful, volunteering may be your answer. The need in our communities is great,  and your life experience, compassion, and commitment can make all the difference. When seniors step forward, communities thrive.

You’re not just helping; you’re inspiring others to do the same. And that’s the kind of legacy worth leavin

Finding Your Place, Volunteering with Purpose in Retirement

Retirement opens a wonderful door,  the chance to give back to your community, share your skills, and make real connections. For many seniors, volunteering is one of the most fulfilling ways to stay active and purposeful. But how do you make sure your time and energy truly make a difference? The secret lies in finding the right fit,  a cause that speaks to your heart and aligns with your values.

When I first retired, I wasn’t sure what to do next. I’d volunteered before,  coaching a youth team and helping out during political campaigns,  but I wanted something new, something that felt meaningful in this stage of life. Then a friend asked me to join the board of a local charity that supported people in need. That opportunity opened my eyes. For eight years, I worked with dedicated people who wanted to make our community stronger. After that, I found my true calling, helping seniors. And I haven’t looked back.

The lesson I learned is simple: take time to explore before you commit. There’s no shortage of organizations needing volunteers, but the most satisfying experiences come when your interests and the organization’s needs truly connect.

Ask yourself: What issues touch my heart? Is it food security, environmental protection, mentoring youth, helping seniors, or caring for animals? Once you know your passion, it’s easier to find the right match.

Websites like Volunteer Canada, or your local volunteer centre, are great places to start. They list opportunities based on your skills, availability, and location. You can also reach out directly to charities you admire or ask friends and family about organizations they’ve worked with.

Take your time to do a little research:

• Read reviews and testimonials.
• Ask other volunteers about their experiences.
• Contact the organization directly to learn about their volunteer needs and expectations.

Every volunteer role comes with different expectations. Some need a regular weekly commitment, while others are project-based or one-day events. Be honest about how much time and energy you can give. Non-profits rely on dependable volunteers,  people they can count on,  so setting realistic boundaries helps everyone.

If your plans change, communicate early. Life happens, but organizations appreciate volunteers who keep them informed and engaged.

Many organizations offer orientation or training sessions to help you understand their mission and safety procedures. Attend these sessions and ask questions. A bit of preparation makes your experience more enjoyable,  and more impactful.

Most of all, remember that volunteering isn’t just about filling a role,  it’s about building relationships, learning, and sharing your gifts. Whether you’re tutoring a child, guiding a museum tour, or helping in a food bank, you’re making your community stronger.

Volunteering in retirement is more than a pastime;  it’s a powerful way to stay connected and purposeful. The first step is simply finding where you fit best. Once you do, you’ll discover that the rewards go far beyond what you give,  they come back to you in friendship, gratitude, and a renewed sense of belonging.

 

Feeling low, try volunteering to cheer you up.

 Volunteering benefits not just the organizations and people being helped but also the volunteers themselves. Research shows that volunteering can improve social connections, mental well-being, physical health, and overall quality of life. These benefits are particularly strong for older adults, who often experience increased purpose and reduced loneliness through volunteering. Helping others, participating in community programs, or engaging in environmental projects can contribute to better mental and physical health and even a longer life.

For retirees or those considering retirement, volunteering can be an excellent way to stay active, meet new people, and make a meaningful impact. Whether you choose to volunteer regularly or occasionally, the sense of accomplishment and connection that comes from giving back can boost your confidence and bring a sense of fulfillment.

Volunteering is part of what’s known as “social prescribing.” This approach connects people with activities and services in the community that help address social or emotional challenges, such as isolation or a lack of purpose. By engaging in volunteering through social prescribing, individuals can improve their well-being while contributing to their communities.

Volunteering is flexible, so you can choose something that suits your interests and schedule. Whether it's lending a hand in civic projects, environmental conservation, or educational programs, every effort counts. Beyond helping others, volunteering allows you to stay engaged with life, grow personally, and even discover new passions. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.

Keeping volunteers in your organization

I am on a number of organization that cater to seniors and use older volunteers. As an organizations we work hard to keep our volunteers with us. Making senior volunteers feel welcome is essential to ensuring they have a positive experience and want to continue to contribute their time and skills. Here are some tips on how we work to make senior volunteers feel welcome:

Senior volunteers often bring a wealth of experience and skills to the table. Show them respect by acknowledging their contributions and considering their input.

Provide adequate orientation and training to senior volunteers to help them understand their roles and responsibilities. This can help them feel more confident in their ability to contribute.

Adequate orientation and training for senior volunteers should provide them with the information and resources they need to understand their roles and responsibilities and feel confident in their ability to contribute effectively. This is a key element to keeping volunteers. We include the following in our orientation and training:

We provide senior volunteers with an overview of the organization, its mission, and its values. This can help them understand the context and feel more connected to the organization’s goals.

We also supply them with a clear job description outlining the specific tasks and responsibilities of their role. We also go over any expectations around attendance, punctuality, and other important factors.

All organizations have policies and procedures so we give them information on our policies and procedures, including any relevant health and safety information. This  ensures thatthey are aware of their rights and responsibilities and can work safely and effectively.

Many of our volunteers have done the work in previous lifes but we still provide training on any specific tasks or skills that theywill be performing. This may include training on computer systems, working with clients or customers, or handling specific equipment or materials.

Working in a new environment can be confusing if a person is not given an orientation to the physical space where they will be volunteering. This orientation will include information on where to find supplies, restrooms, and other important facilities.

Feedback is important so we provide our volunteers with ongoing support and feedback to help them feel confident in their role and make any necessary adjustments. This includes regular check-ins, training sessions, and opportunities for feedback and suggestions.

We also try to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where our volunteers feel comfortable and appreciated. We make sure they have a designated workspace and access to the resources they need.

Communication is key to making our volunteers feel welcome. We take steps to communicate with them and we are also open to their feedback and suggestions.

Many of our volunteers have other commitments or health concerns that require flexibility in their volunteering schedule. We are open to accommodating their needs as much as possible.

We take the time throughout the year to recognize and appreciate the contributions of our volunteers. We host a number of  volunteer appreciation events and highlighting their contributions on social media or in other communications.

By following these tips, we think we created a welcoming environment for our  volunteers and we believe that thes practices help ensure our volunteers feel valued and appreciated for their contributions.

Think about volunteering

 What is volunteering?

Volunteering is the time you give to strengthen your community and improve others’ quality of life as well as your own. There are so many ways to be involved in the community:

     Speak to your passion 
Suit your personality 
Meet your interests
Build on your experiences
Fit into your lifestyle Contribute to your health and well-being

How can volunteering fit into my lifestyle?

You may be at a point in your life when you do not want to take on any more responsibility or you may be in a position to take charge. A wide spectrum of volunteer opportunities is available to suit various interests and circumstances.

You can volunteer…

·        From home

·        In an office

·        In a garden

·        Overseas

·        With family and friends

·        On your own

·        Just in the summer Once a year

·        Every day •

·        Now, later

·        Short-term longer-term, ongoing, or occasionally

LEADERSHIP

·        Facilitate a strategic planning session Serve on a Board or Committee Chair a fundraising campaign

·        Help start a tenants’ rights association

MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION

·        Review a Human Resources Manual Organize a volunteer schedule for an event Enter data at a resource centre

·        Provide general office help

TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL MEDIA

·        Design a website for an elder-care co-op Write a blog on affordable housing Customize a donor database for a food bank

·        Teach computer skills in a community centre

BUILDING AND HANDICRAFTS

·        Build a bookshelf for a reading room Sew costumes for a play

·   Teach card-making in a rehabilitation centre Build a stage for marathon ceremonies

·        Combine volunteering with other things that are important in your life such as:

·        Time with family (volunteer with your family or in your grandchildren’s school)

·        Travelling (joining an international development project overseas)

NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT

·        Walk a dog for a local animal shelter

·        Research pesticide bylaws in different cities

·        Plant vegetables in a community garden

ONE-TO-ONE SUPPORT

·        Tutor children

·        Comfort a victim of violence Be a mentor to a teen Coach an executive director

DIRECT SERVICE

·        Answer the phones for a helpline Prepare lunch in a soup kitchen Coach a team

·        Drive people to medical appointments

ENTERTAINMENT

·        Play piano for a sing-along at a retirement residence

·        MC at a volunteer service awards night Do a stand-up comedy act at a fundraiser Join a choir that entertains at community events 

·        Spending time with friends (get a group together to plan a special event)

·        Hobbies (teach puppet-making in a community centre)

·        Recreation (be a swimming buddy for someone with a disability)

Benefits of volunteering

·        In addition to the valuable contribution, you make to the community, volunteering has been proven to have many benefits for you as a volunteer:

Opportunities to:

·        Learn new skills Expand horizons

·        Maintain or establish a sense of belonging

·        Expand social and business contacts Stay active

Reduction of:

·        Stress, anxiety, and depression Low self-esteem

·        Social isolation Stress-related illness

Volunteering and retirement planning

·        Volunteering can play a key role at every stage, but it can also serve as a way to help you through transitions, such as retirement. Volunteering can contribute to your quality of life today and allow you to create a legacy for the future.

·        Whether your transition or retirement involves a change in your household, neighbourhood, health situation, employment status, or daily schedule, volunteering can make your days both meaningful and satisfying in new ways.

·        Volunteering can connect you to your community, help you maintain your skills or develop new skills, and allow you to participate in the democratic process. Volunteering can help shape and preserve the society you want to live in—for yourself and for generations to come.1

How to find the right volunteer opportunity:

Start by asking yourself the following questions:

·        What matters to me?

·        What skills and experiences do I want to share or develop?

·        What setting would be best for me?

·        Are there others I know who might like to volunteer together?

·        What are the challenges and issues in my community, the country, and in the world?

What kind of volunteer are you?

Take the Volunteer Quiz and get some ideas of what might suit your interests, skills, and personality. www.getinvolved.ca

Finding volunteer opportunities

·        To find current opportunities, call an organization you know, contact your local volunteer centre, look in your neighbourhood newspaper, or check out websites or databases for volunteers.

www.volunteer.ca 

www.getinvolved.ca

www.charityvillage.ca   

www.govolunteer.ca

 To find more information on seniors’ services and benefits, visit www.seniors.gc.ca  or your local Service Canada office.

This information was prepared by Volunteer Canada at the request of the Forum of Federal/Provincial/Territorial Ministers Responsible for Seniors. 

Volunteering?

From the time I started to work in education, I became a volunteer. I was a volunteer coach, tutor, union rep, organizer, etc. When I retired, I continue to volunteer. It is an important part of who I am and what I do. Volunteering is the time I give to strengthen my community and improve others’ quality of life as well as my own. There are so many ways to be involved in the community that I don’t understand why so few volunteers. You can find volunteering opportunities that:

·       Speak to your passion

·       Suit your personality

·       Meet your interests

·       Build on your experiences

·       Fit into your lifestyle

·       Contribute to your health and well-being

You may be at a point in your life when you do not want to take on any more responsibility or you may be in a position to take charge. There is a wide spectrum of volunteer opportunities available to suit a range of interests and circumstances.

You can volunteer…

·       From home

·       In an office

·       In a garden Overseas

·       With family and friends

·       On your own

·       Just in the summer

·       Once a year Every day

·       Now, later Short-term,

·       longer-term, ongoing,

·       or occasionally

The possibilities Combine volunteering with other things that are important in your life such as:

·       Time with family (volunteer with

·       your family or in your

·       grandchildren’s school)

·       Travelling (joining an international development project overseas)

·       LEADERSHIP Facilitate a strategic planning session Serve on a Board or Committee Chair a fundraising campaign Help start a tenants’ rights association

·       MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION Review a Human Resources Manual Organize a volunteer schedule for an event Enter data at a resource centre Provide general office help

·       TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL MEDIA Design a website for an elder-care co-op Write a blog on affordable housing Customize a donor database for a food bank Teach computer skills in a community centre

·       BUILDING AND HANDICRAFTS Build a bookshelf for a reading room Sew costumes for a play Teach card-making in a rehabilitation centre Build a stage for marathon ceremonies

What type of volunteering can I do?

·       NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT Walk a dog for a local animal shelter Research pesticide bylaws in different cities Plant vegetables in a community garden

·       ONE-TO-ONE SUPPORT Tutor children Comfort a victim of violence Be a mentor to a teen Coach an executive director

·       DIRECT SERVICE Answer the phones for a helpline Prepare lunch in a soup kitchen Coach a team Drive people to medical appointments

·       ENTERTAINMENT Play piano for a sing-a-long at a retirement residence MC at a volunteer service awards night Do a stand-up comedy act at a fundraiser Join a choir that entertains at community events Spending time with friends (get a group together to plan a special event) Hobbies (teach puppet-making in a community centre) Recreation (be a swimming buddy for someone with a disability)

In addition to the valuable contribution you make to the community, volunteering has been proven to have many benefits for you as a volunteer:

·       Opportunities to Learn new skills Expand horizons Maintain or establish a sense

·       of belonging Expand social and business contacts Stay active

·       Reduction of Stress, anxiety, depression Low self-esteem Social isolation Stress-related illness

·       Volunteering and retirement planning

·       Volunteering can play a key role at every stage but it can also serve as a way to help you through transitions, such as retirement. Volunteering can contribute to your quality of life today and allow you to create a legacy for the future.

Whether your transition or retirement involves a change in your household, neighbourhood, health situation, employment status, or daily schedule, volunteering can make your days both meaningful and satisfying in new ways.

Volunteering can connect you to your community, help you maintain your skills or develop new skills, and allow you to participate in the democratic process. Through volunteering, you can help shape and preserve the society you want to live in—for yourself and for generations to come.

www.getvolunteering.ca

How to find the right volunteer opportunity:

Start by asking yourself the following questions:

·       What matters to me?

·       What skills and experiences do

·       I want to share or develop?

·       What setting would be best for me?

·       Are there others I know who might

·       like to volunteer together?

·       What are the challenges and issues in my community, country, in the world?

Take the Volunteer Quiz and get some ideas of what might suit your interests, skills, and personality.

www.getinvolved.ca

To find current opportunities, call an organization you know, contact

your local volunteer centre, look in your neighbourhood newspaper, or check out websites or databases for volunteers.

·       www.volunteer.ca

·       www.getinvolved.ca

·       www.charityvillage.ca

·       www.govolunteer.ca