To the editor:
Everyone looks forward to retirement, right?
Are you thinking, “Been there, done that?”
Everything on your retirement “to-do” list is done, you say? OK, probably not!
Retirees are often left wondering, “What’s my purpose now?”
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The kids are grown, soon the grandchildren will be, too. They’re just not around as much. Maybe you don’t have kids. Are your former coworkers in the picture less and less?
Where’s your sense of accomplishment or that long-lost feeling of being appreciated?
There’s an opportunity in communities near you that can fill your gaps like nothing else! There IS a rewarding, meaningful way to spend your time. It can fit into your lifestyle the way you choose. Not too much, but just enough.
Children, along with schools and other nonprofit sites, need caring adults, ages 55 up, who are willing to share their abilities and life experience. No one is thought to be “too old” for this.
We provide orientation, then you’ll learn as you go from the teachers and kids! Travel reimbursement is provided to all, and many qualify for a tax-free hourly stipend. Other benefits can include new friendships, interesting trainings/on-going learning, a donated meal if volunteering at mealtime. Did I mention fun activities that will make you laugh really hard?
Switch it up! Go for a change of pace! This will make your life interesting! Local volunteerism has the potential to positively change things more than you can ever imagine. If you already volunteer with kids, ask me if you qualify for our benefits. Now is a great time to simply inquire or to apply. Call 320-293-0682 or email pat.scherf@ccstcloud.org
Pat Scherf
Area Supervisor, Central Minnesota Foster Grandparent Program
(Serving Douglas, Grant, Pope, Stevens, Traverse, Wilkin, and parts of Otter Tail, Stearns, and Todd counties.)
The Trust Project
