Volunteering opportunities for seniors

Studies have shown that volunteering has a positive effect on seniors’ well-being and can even help stave off neurological problems associated with old age, including depression and dementia. If you’re a retiree looking to volunteer your time and skills, here are some ways you can give back to your community:

1. Offer pro bono services. One way to volunteer during your retirement is to use your professional skills to help people in need for free. For instance, if you used to be an accountant, you can volunteer to help low-income families or recent immigrants prepare their tax returns. If you used to be a lawyer, you can offer free legal assistance to groups in need.

2. Support causes you’re passionate about. Take advantage of your retirement years to get involved with activist movements that inspire you. Whether it’s campaigning for political candidates or writing letters advocating legislative changes, you’re sure to find plenty of ways to further the causes you’re passionate about.

3. Mentor children. One of the best ways to contribute to your community is to volunteer to tutor or mentor kids—especially those who may not receive the academic and emotional support they need at home—through local schools and educational programs. Working with children can be a great way to bridge the generation gap while making a substantial difference in a young person’s life.

4. Work with immigrant communities. Volunteer to help recent immigrants acclimatize to life in the United States. You can do things like help with job applications, child care and English language learning, or simply offer support and companionship as families adjust to their new country.

For further volunteer opportunities, you can get involved with Senior Corps, a network of national service programs for Americans 55 and older. Find out more by visiting nationalservice.gov/programs/senior-corps/what-senior-corps.