Volunteering after Retirement

Written by Pat Watson

This article is courtesy Mature Living Magazine.

When I open the door and walk down the hallway of Muleshoe Area Healthcare Center, I am greeted with smiles and words of welcome. The warmth in the eyes of my friends reflects my own joy at being here. Today is Tuesday, and I have come to work as a volunteer in the beauty shop.   

Memories flood my mind as I reflect on the past few years, and I know I have gained much more than I have given. I began volunteer work shortly after retiring from my profession as a schoolteacher. I also had served the Lord as youth leader, Sunday School teacher, and church organist for much of my life, but I wanted to expand my vision by working as a volunteer.   

I have received irreplaceable benefits from this work, including loving friendships, words of encouragement, and camaraderie with other volunteers and staff members. Volunteerism presents unique challenges to those who share their time and talents with others. I call these challenges the important “Be” factors for a volunteer.   

Be selective. Opportunities for volunteerism abound and involve a variety of needs from organizational skills to creative innovations. As Christians, we are instructed to “stir up the gift of God, which is in thee” (2 Tim. 1:6). These gifts can supply much needed help for various organizations and institutions. Because the needs seem so great, we must be selective and choose areas of volunteerism in which we have a special interest or can make the greatest impact.   

Be committed. In our busy lives setting aside one day weekly, biweekly, or monthly requires commitment. It is important to view that day as a “contract” between the volunteer and those with whom he or she works. As with any other job, emergencies or unexpected events can prevent fulfilling an appointment, but be there if possible. If this is not feasible, let someone know in time to make other arrangements. Others depend on our commitment.   

Be sensitive. Relationships with people and an understanding of their needs are important aspects of volunteer work. When I enter the healthcare center, I recognize that I am a guest in the home of the residents. I must be sensitive to the needs of my friends. I may sense emotions ranging from loneliness and grief to happiness and contentment, and my reaction to these emotions can often lighten a burden or enhance joy. Regardless of the area of work, volunteers will encounter people who need a listening ear, a tender touch, or a word of encouragement.   

Be flexible. Not all circumstances are conducive to a prepared agenda. It is important to have an alternative plan available if unforeseen circumstances arise, especially with a program designed to entertain or instruct. In addition to my weekly stint in the beauty shop, I conduct a monthly music program for the residents. A light, fun-filled program is inappropriate if grief pervades the atmosphere, and I must place the residents’ needs above my own prearranged plans. During my tenure as a teacher, I had to be prepared to monitor and adjust a lesson if what I had planned was not working. This is also an important aspect of volunteer work.   

Be discerning. Often in volunteer work, especially when working one-on-one, someone may share something confidential. Relationships are built on trust, and we honor our friends by our understanding and consideration. Prayerfully discern whether or not the shared confidence indicates a problem that should be reported to the staff. Above all, treat the confidence with respect.   

Be excellent. Colossians 3:23 admonishes us, “Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” The recipients of our volunteer work deserve the best we can offer. Let us perform every task with joy and with excellence.   

Volunteer work? I recommend it wholeheartedly. My friends bless my life with phrases such as “I prayed that God would send you today.” “Now, don’t I look pretty?” “I’m so glad you came.” “I love you.” Smiles of welcome and words of love let me know that I am where I belong, doing the things that please my Father.

Pat Watson is a retired teacher from Muleshoe, Texas, who enjoys sewing, reading, and writing.

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