As you may have guessed, I am a people person. I love connecting with friends, strangers and soon to be friends. Although I enjoy silence and time alone, I find I am at my best when I am with others.
I realized the best way to connect is to join an organization that does somethi
ng I approve of and want to take part in. Organizations like local Rotary Clubs, Peace Corps, Meet-Up groups, clean-up committees, volunteer projects, house building organizations, school tutoring and other similar organization appeal to me.
The act of volunteering allows me to contribute to something bigger than myself. The act of connecting gives me a venue to meet and socialize with others who are drawn to the same issues that interest me. It makes me feel good about myself mentally and emotionally. When I am doing something physical it’s even better because I feel as if I am giving and receiving at the same time.
Another way I receive while giving is by meeting new people. I may be cleaning up a highway or taking tickets at an event and you can bet I am talking to the people next to me, the patrons and the organizers. I learned long ago that we all have a story to tell so when I meet people I wait for their stories. Sometimes it takes a few minutes; sometimes it takes years. In the meantime, I am listening, sharing and enjoying the give and take of it all.
volunteering can improve mental health, extend life
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Happily ... after retirement 
I first volunteered when I was 15 and at school. I visited a man in hospital to read to him. Since then I’ve done quite a few stints, and even been a co-ordinator.
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I enjoy volunteering because I get to see the things I’d never see otherwise. Whether working in a hospice unit, reading books to children, delivering food to the elderly or organizing events – I feel as if I am the one receiving instead of giving. It’s truly a win-win for me!
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