Volunteering: a Path to a Brighter Community

By Danielle Shyne, Attorney/Owner Shyne Law Group, PLLC.

During these turbulent times, people tend to get tunnel vision as to our own problems and concerns. I understand why clients come to me eager to create a comprehensive estate plan: fear. While working on your individual estate or fi nancial plan can bring peace to your mind and home, I propose we all work to expand our view and help out our neighbors, friends, and community. It is good for us and for the community. Volunteering your time and energy helps strengthen your community, but it also has important emotional and physical benefi ts. According to a study done by the Corporation for National and Community Service, Americans over the age of 60 that volunteered reported lower disability and higher levels of well-being compared to those who did not volunteer. The benefi ts of volunteering include:

1. Helps bridge generation gap.

By interacting with younger generations, seniors are able to share important life lessons.

2. Volunteering time makes you feel like you have more time.

Giving others your time can make your time feel more affl uent. A study done at Wharton College found that people who give their time felt more capable, confi dent and useful.

3. It’s good for mental health.

Volunteering keeps the brain active, which contributes to a person’s cognitive health. The National Institute on Aging reported that participating in activities that are meaningful and productive may lower the risk of dementia and other health problems in seniors.

4. Helps prevent senior isolation and depression.

While getting out of the house is important at any age, research found that volunteering can have positive effects on a person’s psychological health. In a study done by the Corporation for National and Community Service, researchers found that individuals who engaged in volunteering activities experienced a shorter course of depression than those who did not volunteer. Find an activity you’re passionate about. Volunteering is best for all parties involved when you are doing something you enjoy. It’s never too late to get started. Here are a few opportunities in our area: HRDC and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) offers volunteer opportunities for individuals age 55 and older. Volunteer placements are available at over 50 organizations, from nonprofi ts to government, education, and health care. Call Bozeman Offi ce 406-587-5444; Livingston Offi ce 406-222-2281. Befrienders. Looking for a way to get involved with Befrienders? There are lots of opportunities, from becoming a Befriender to a senior, joining our board, or volunteering on our special events committee. Call (406) 522-8169. Cancer Support Community Montana. Volunteers needed to support services offered to those affected by cancer. Call (406) 582-1600. Eagle Mount. Volunteers needed to help with therapeutic recreation. Call (406) 586-1781. Income-qualifi ed volunteers 55+ have the chance to mentor and provide companionship for a child. Stipend. Thrive. Volunteers needed for a variety of different programs. (406) 587-3840. Rural Dynamics, Inc. Volunteers needed for fi nancial counseling, debt management, free tax preparation, budgeting assistance, bankruptcy counseling, and more. Call (877) 275-2227.

Danielle Shyne is the owner/ attorney of Shyne Law Group, PLLC.