It is spring, HOOray! It is now time we can begin to make some plans to get out of our homes and get involved in our communities, with our neighbors, and especially with fresh air.
Now what to do, where to go? Big decisions to make now that we do not have to depend upon the weather to make these decisions for us. My recommendation is to become a volunteer in Portage County.
I know you have something to offer which will improve someone’s life, and I know that your life will be improved by your donation of time. Did you know that the Corporation for National and Community Service has shown that individuals who volunteer not only live longer, but also have fewer bouts of depression, increase their energy and strength, and have fewer physical limitations than those who do not volunteer?
I know you will benefit from your involvement by helping others because you may learn some new skills, you will have increased social interactions, which in itself will boost your self-esteem, and you will have the opportunity to be recognized and awarded for your contributions.
What volunteer opportunities are out there for you? Well, how about taking a few hours and “count frogs” at a nearby lake for the Portage County Parks, or how about helping to serve a meal at Kent Social Services or the Center of Hope? Other opportunities include becoming a foster grandparent and mentoring a school-age child in one of our county’s schools; or becoming a volunteer at University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna and helping patients and visitors find their way through the facility; or helping staff at a local senior center; or helping at a local food pantry.
There are a multitude of needs in every corner of our county, and they all could use your help.
To begin your volunteer journey, call RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) at 330-297-2027, ext. 332. Or contact the Portage Parks at 330-297-7728, or the Center of Hope, or a neighboring senior center.
Wherever you decide to become involved, know that “every act of service builds a stronger community, which isn’t just nice but it is necessary.”
The latest census figures show Portage County having a total population of 163,839 individuals, with 18.7% of us being over the age of 65. Can you imagine what effect we would have in our county if only a third of us became volunteers and did something to make our neighborhoods better?
Oh, by the way, April is National Volunteer Month!
Contact Sally Kelly with your senior news at 330-687-9501 or [email protected].
