Most of us dream about our retirement throughout our working life.  We foresee a relaxing time catching up on unread books, fishing the river, gardening, or seeing more of our families. 

However, in reality, leisure activities may not fulfill all your intellectual needs.  You may miss the sense of purpose and belonging provided by employment.  Retirement means that you have the time to participate in voluntary work or other community activities, and this is a great way to keep yourself involved in community life.

In Western Australia, nearly one-quarter of all volunteers are over the age of 55.  Many are participating in more than one voluntary activity. For those people who haven’t had time during the earlier years of their life, retirement can be a good time to start putting something back into the community. The benefits of volunteering include:

• keeping physically and mentally active;
• having a sense of purpose and self worth;
• learning new things;
• meeting new people;
• helping others less fortunate than yourself;
• improving the environment;
• making a difference to the world;
  using your time in a meaningful way; and
• passing on your skills and knowledge.

Volunteers participate in a wide range of activities including community service organisations, schools, sports groups, environmental groups, political parties, church groups, museums, animal welfare groups – the range is endless.  There are a number of Volunteer Resource Centres in Western Australia that can help match you with a suitable volunteering activity.  For more information about the centres, visit the Volunteering Secretariat website at www.volunteers.wa.gov.au