As one transitions into retirement, if you are fortunate to be able to do so, the hours on your clock become amazingly flexible. In fact, some seniors note that there is only one day of the week – Saturday. With that flexibility in time, it allows a person to commit to things they appreciate pursuing on an individual basis or on a community basis. When thinking outside of one’s own interests and to the communities, there are indeed opportunities to serve.
Although one may think they couldn’t help young children in schools, there are local possibilities. Connecting with young readers or mathematicians who are having challenges being successful, imagine taking a few hours in a week during the school year to help out. It’s easy to get involved. Contact a school administrator and have an idea of what you can offer. You will need to get a Criminal Records Check and Vulnerable Sector Check via the RCMP. As a volunteer these checks are done for you cost-free. Watching a young student move forward and have success, can be truly rewarding. You may indeed make a difference in that child’s life.
Joining a seniors group or a community focused group provides one with many opportunities. New friendships and becoming actively engaged in an organization can be a fine way to invest your time. Organizations like the Lions and Rotary Clubs contribute to the quality of life in Chestermere. The Whitecappers Association for 50 plus individuals carries on a variety of social activities and has need for individuals to guide the organization. Getting involved with Chestermere’s Seniors Coalition to have input on seniors issues is a great way to communicate your views and learn about the needs of seniors. The City of Chestermere also makes appointments with seniors in mind to serve the community as well. Serving on boards, such as the Library Board, can also provide opportunities to both learn and contribute to the betterment of services for citizens.
If you have a hobby where you wish to get together with others who have similar interests, such as art or quilting, Chestermere has a few groups that do those very things. In the art realm there are two groups who invite people to join: the Chestermere Fine Arts Guild and the Artisans of Chestermere, the latter a group with the Whitecappers. If you wish to pursue quilting Chestermere has the Lakeside Quilters Guild and the Quilters Group, the second a part of the Whitecappers. A listing of the clubs and organizations that are open to growing and adding members can be found at https://www.chestermere.ca/323/Community-Clubs-Associations on the City of Chestermere’s website.
Retired and looking for things to do? Your lifetime of experience, knowledge and wisdom are valuable assets that can add much to a community. It is indeed taking a risk, but the rewards can be most satisfying and fulfilling. Be it expanding your specific interests or contributing to the community, both open doors and can provide positive life experiences.
