Volunteering has its mental, physical, and social benefits for people of all ages. This is especially true for persons over the age of 65. In addition, seniors may be less active and interact less with the community compared to other age groups. When they volunteer at schools and after-school groups, they become more active and live longer due to the benefits offered by volunteering.
Frompreventing isolation and depression and finding a purpose to an opportunity to transfer values, knowledge, and skills to the next generation, seniors have multiple ways to volunteer in the community. Keep reading to discover opportunities for seniors to volunteer at schools and after-school groups, including practical ways how to start.
Opportunities for Seniors to Volunteer in Schools and After-School Groups
With an increasing demand for teachers, senior citizens have multiple opportunities to volunteer and help in schools. From year-round school volunteering to seasonal and a few hours a week, the elderly can help learners in various ways. Besides adults and other age groups who are relied on to volunteer in local schools, the working population has less time to spend with school children during the day.
Therefore, retirees aregreat candidates to help schools and after-school groups since they have more time during the day. Among the most common opportunities for seniors to volunteer with students include:
- Classroom helper
- Assist with special needs students
- Tutoring individual students
- Help administration with their duties
- Serving as a mentor to children
- Attend school board meetings or PTA meetings
- Participate as judges in a local school and after-school science fairs
- Lunchroom or playground monitor
Communities often appreciate senior expertise in different fields, enabling teachers to assign individual focus to struggling students. With the presence of a senior volunteer, it is easier for these students to learn and thrive. After-school groups are also critical areas for seniors to volunteer and provide a safe solution for children, especially those run by schools.
How Seniors Can Get Started with Volunteering at Schools and After-School Groups
Senior citizens interested in volunteering should begin by contacting the local school and informing them of their intentions. Besides, most schools and after-school groups provide information regarding volunteering opportunities available. Therefore, contacting them and registering for a specific volunteering opportunity is a great starting point.
Some schools and organizations can distribute volunteer forms to seniors interested in volunteering in schools or after-school groups. Filling out these forms is a great way to start volunteering for seniors looking to help children in the community. The elderly can also check various websites to access online volunteer forms or schools and organizations looking for volunteers in their area.
Our Dedication to Senior Health
At Senior Helpers Lee's Summit, we understand how crucial it is for seniors to engage in volunteering and engage with children in schools and after-school programs. Besides, we remain passionate about delivering non-medical home care. This includes Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, as well as dementia care in Lee's Summit, Kansas City, and Blue Springs. Contact us to get started with our professional elderly care or schedule an in-home assessment with our caregivers today.