If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else ~ Booker T Washington

Volunteering to help others has always been a noble pursuit. Many times during life we encounter people in need of help whether just an encouraging word or meal to fill an empty stomach. And whether we show it or not I believe that most of us are touched inside when such a moment occurs. But it is not always that easy for us to step forward and actively do something about it. It is less complicated to continue on with our busy lives.

Winston Churchill said “You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.” As retirees we have the opportunity to step forward and make a life by helping others. The worthy causes are many it is just a matter of stepping up and participating. And those who make the commitment typically tell endless stories of the rewarding feelings they experience, the satisfaction realized and the inner happiness they did not know before.

There are numerous choices to focus your volunteering efforts so you should take some time to research a bit. Find what most strikes your interest, what you are most passionate about and look into it. Even if you are unable to physically be on-site for your volunteering, with the power of the internet you can now enter the growing ranks of virtual volunteers who participate from their own home aiding worthwhile causes.

In retirement you have the time. If you have the interest you can volunteer that time and your expertise to help.

This week’s US News & World blog Volunteer Options in Retirement digs a bit deeper into some volunteering options that may be of interest. Take a look at the article and then take a look inside to see if it makes sense for you.