After thirty years of working in health care, I made the decision to retire and begin the next chapter in my life: I became a volunteer and I have never looked back. Volunteering at Loaves & Fishes Community Services and its CARES Programs has become my second career. The personal rewards just keep coming and I feel blessed to have been given the opportunity to serve others.
Why is volunteering so important and why would I encourage others to take advantage of similar opportunities? First of all, it helps to enrich our community by keeping local organizations, social service agencies and businesses solvent. It also gives you the opportunity to use your time and talents to learn about the many charitable, educational, and civic organizations that work to make Naperville the wonderful town that it is.
For me personally, the benefits gained by volunteering are enormous. I am able to use skills learned and experienced in the work arena in a productive manner. My life post-retirement has a purpose and I know that I and my fellow colleagues do make a difference. I feel involved and able to make a contribution towards a mission that I deeply care about. I have met and developed deep friendships with others who share my passion.
Volunteering offers you the opportunity to learn new skills and take on new challenges. The Corporation for National and Community Services states that volunteering improves both physical and psychological health. It provides an opportunity to give back and at the same time receive the satisfaction of knowing you are helping others.
As I look back at the past almost twenty years of retirement and volunteering, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve in my community. I encourage all of you to reach out and join in. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
