Giving Back

Giving Back to Get Even More!

All of us really do have something to share, AND the ways you can help may surprise you! (The difference you make isn’t just....generosity.) Several studies have shown that volunteerism by seniors comes with major personal benefits as well. It keeps your brain active. Emotional and mental well-being improve, and the physical benefits of staying active cannot be denied. Volunteering prevents isolation and depression. Plus, if seniors volunteer with youth, the magical bridging of the age gap happens, which helps both generations.

Are you a good listener? Do you play an instrument or share your love of music with others? Do you knit or crochet? Journal your own memories? Any of these “specialties” referred to are often perceived as casual hobbies. But take a second look, and you will quickly realize how what you are passionate about can make an enormous difference when shared with others who’ll benefit from your time and expertise?

Companionship is high on the list of volunteer needs in our area. Michelle Symni, a Lewes C resident donates her time and caregiving skills weekly at a local hospice care facility, and finds it personally gratifying and humbling at the same time. She reads aloud, brings musical recordings and sometimes just listens to patients, knowing she can give some comfort. “It’s actually a privilege to learn from those I’m helping. They are actually the ones helping me,” she says with a smile.

Do you have an accounting background? It’s tax season, and many seniors need help filing their taxes correctly - without having the expense. The Lewes Senior Center annually partners with AARP and their legal aid program, providing free tax assistance. MANY other nonprofits also can benefit from bookkeeping help and plenty of other office tasks – even if it’s just to answer the phone to free up the staff.

Has cancer touched you or someone in your family? Cancer Support Community of Delaware is currently seeking volunteers for its Rehoboth Beach Wings of Hope campaign and/or its annual Pink Affair to support breast cancer patients and survivors. The Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition has local events and projects as well, so take a look at the opportunities to get connected and volunteer on their website.

Other healthcare volunteer opportunities abound! Blood Bank of Delmarva needs ambassadors and administrative help in its drives all around Delmarva throughout the year. And hundreds of volunteers are needed annually at many of the local hospice organizations. Whether it is providing companionship, knitting warm clothing for the patients or playing a soothing instrument for them, hospices and long term care facilities are always looking for help. Even volunteering to make visits with your therapy pet makes a difference.

Do you have reliable transportation and don’t mind the local traffic? For some folks, driving is their happy place. Well, plenty of transportation volunteers are also needed locally. Meals on Wheels drivers provide a hot cooked meal to the homebound, and a much-welcomed human connection. Local senior centers also need volunteers to drive their members without transportation to events, doctor appointments and errands.

Many local churches lead organized efforts to help people in need, whether it’s companionship or a hot, homecooked meal. It’s an excellent way to connect in your community and meet new friends!

Yes, you’ve guessed it. The list is never-ending, (AND you can find plenty of ways to GIVE BACK on your own, with neighbors or folks you meet on walks around the dog park, because once you get talking, it’s easy to find need!) With so many great groups jumping in to make a difference TOGETHER, there are options galore! We’ve just given you a glimpse with a few interesting ways to volunteer that already exist in Southern Delaware.

Sometimes, seeing the endless list makes you ask, but what difference can I make? Keep your balance and look for a place where YOUR PASSION and SKILLS meet THE NEEDS AROUND YOU! Each drop together can turn into a wave of impressive change. AND it provides a renewed sense of purpose. So start looking for how you can share your experience and compassion. Volunteer!