Aging Out as Volunteers

There are ways for older volunteers to still make a difference, without serving on three-year committees and doing all the work. And they are having fun too!

The Old Broads in Long Beach, MS

Jenny Proctor shared the Old Broads photo on Facebook.

She said, “Good afternoon! Missouri mom, here. This group recently connected me to a wonderful housing option for my college-age daughter, who will be relocating to Long Beach (MS). I am so grateful for the knowledge you shared that help make it possible!”

These women are set up at the Long Beach Farmers Market on the weekend. Smart girls sit under shade trees and give free advice! That’s where Jenny found them, on a visit to Long Beach. I found them on the Facebook Page ‘Keep Long Beach Beautiful’.

The Old Broads in Long Beach, MS photo by Jenny Proctor

Pillars of the Community go where they are needed

Clontarf, MN has the Pillars of the Community who want to be involved in events and activities, but in a way that helps and doesn’t require too much energy. The Pillars of the Community were born! They set up at local events and have a great time answering questions, giving advice, and enjoying all the conversations.

The Pillars of the Community (women above, men below)

The Old Geezers, retired but found a way to help

I met the Old Geezers over coffee one morning in Akron, Iowa. They use an empty building that was once a hospital to meet for coffee. Most of them had woodworking tools and were storing them in their garages. Their wives wanted their garages back, so the guys brought their woodworking equipment to the empty building in the dry basement. They help anyone in town who wants to build something without having to buy all the necessary tools. They also work with high school kids. The Old Geezers are now they are called the Down Unders.

The Old Geezers having coffee above and an Old Geezer showing off the woodworking equipment below.

You might hear me talking about how we older folks should ‘let go.’

Here’s a perfect way to do just that. Become your own kind of Old Broads, Old Geezers, or Pillars of the Community. You don’t have to stop volunteering. Let someone younger come and try out their ideas. You’ll be right there if they need you.