Finding a Volunteer or Service Role

But volunteering is not the only way people over 50 serve in their communities. About 80% help out in schools, local government, faith organizations, community projects, and assist neighbors in need. 38% are primary or key caregivers for grandchildren, and 40% are caregivers for parents, spouses, friends or neighbors. About 30% help adult children and aging parents financially.

There are many ways to serve, and we hope you will discover those that are right for you from these resources offered by members of The Encore Network.

BOOKS

The Big Shift   In this book, Marc Freedman, the thought leader behind the idea of encore, describes the opportunity for people over 50 to use their skills to confront significant societal challenges, like education, the environment and healthcare.

Transforming Disruption to Impact   This collection of essays, edited by Craig Young and others, emerged out of the pandemic and highlights the lessons and practices learned that have led us to rethink service for a rapidly changing world.

PROGRAMS

Rethinking Volunteerism   Beth Steinhorn, President of VQ Volunteer Strategies, and Craig Young, Executive Director of Inspiring Service, discuss new ideas about volunteer service coming out of the disruptive experience of the pandemic.

America’s Longevity Bonus   Ken Dychtwald, CEO of Age Wave and one of the pioneers in the field of aging, describes his research about how people over 50 are redefining later life, the contributions they are making, and the implications for our society.

ONLINE RESOURCES

Inspiring Service   This organization develops innovative ways to help people discover and connect with opportunities that align with their values, interests, and passions. Check their website to see if they serve your city, state or region.

GROUPS

SAGE   Based in Portland Oregon, this group inspires people over 50 to give forward with their time, money, and voice so that younger and future generations can thrive. They offer a variety of events, initiatives and teams to help people get involved.

Greater Cleveland Volunteers   Connects people in Cuyahoga County with volunteer opportunities at numerous nonprofit organizations. Also runs AARP Foundation Experience Corps, a K-3 literacy tutoring initiative, and Americorps Seniors RSVP.

Oasis Institute   Runs intergenerational tutoring programs in 630 schools in 20 cities across the US. The program matches older adults with young readers in grades K-3 and provides training in a special literacy curriculum.