As a recent retiree, you have a little extra time on your hands and have been thinking about becoming a volunteer. Good for you! New York could always use more do-gooders who want to lend a helping hand. And whether you want to help out at an animal shelter, help with environmental issues or work with the homeless, New York has plenty of organizations that could use a helping hand.
There are any number of ways in which you can help make this city better. From cleaning up our parks to serving food at a shelter, there are great opportunities for you to get involved. Your Medicaid planning consulting service offers a few.
Become a Big Brother or Big Sister
Big Brothers and Big Sisters of New York is always looking for mentors. As a volunteer, you set your own schedule as a role model in a young man’s or young women’s life. You will be matched with children between the ages of seven and 17 from all over the city. The impact you have with these young adults is huge and the commitment is relatively minimal. Male volunteers are in high demand as there are many boys on the waiting list.
Deliver Meals to the Elderly
Citymeals on Wheels offers volunteer opportunities to suit all types of New Yorkers. From making social visits to delivering meals, you can help ensure homebound elderly New York residents receive companionship and proper nourishment. And don’t be surprised if you make a few friends as you socialize with these wonderful people you are helping.
Help Immigrants Adjust to Life in the Big Apple
Cabrini Immigrant Services depends almost entirely on the labors of good-hearted New Yorkers who volunteer to help. You can be a critical part of their success when you give back to the community. Whether you wish to help coordinate events, host a workshop or work in the pantry, there is plenty that needs to be done.
If you have tech skills, you can help teach Microsoft programs or social media to immigrants. There is also a need for those who can teach English, cooking or even knitting.
Adults with Disabilities
You can stay in shape and give back to the community by volunteering with programs like Achilles International and Morning Yoga with Heritage House. You can start your mornings by participating with seniors and special needs adults in yoga or help disabled runners become proficient with their special equipment.
Volunteer at a Public School
New York Cares is in need of volunteers for both long and short-term projects. You can help school children with reading, math and other classroom activities. There are rewards in helping a kid with their multiplication table.
If math still scares you, there are plenty of opportunities that don’t require educational skills. For example, you could volunteer to help elementary students master strength and flexibility through a modified martial arts program or help children develop skills for sports like basketball and baseball.
Giving back to your community is very rewarding.
