Retirement can mean having more time on your hands. So why not spend it on things that make you happy – including devoting time to causes and interests that may have taken a backseat to careers and family obligations?
With this week being National Volunteer Week, here are five ideas for volunteering your time to worthy causes.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is one of the world’s largest Christian social welfare organisations, with more than 1.65 million members working in over 124 countries. The Salvos Stores rely on volunteers across Australia, whether through helping within a store or in the warehouse, office or call centre. Find out more about volunteering with the Salvos here.
Casserole Club
For volunteers living in Melbourne, the Casserole Club is a meal-sharing project that connects people who enjoy cooking with older neighbours living close by who may need help and company. You can become involved as a micro-volunteer, meaning you can choose to cook at a time that is convenient for you, or simply on a once-off basis. If you are happy to cook a meal or share an extra portion of a home cooked meal with someone who may not be able to cook for themselves, you can become part of the Casserole Club here.
World Vision
World Vision is Australia’s largest charitable group, providing relief in emergency situations and working on long-term community development projects to address poverty and help people become independent. World Vision currently has several locally based volunteer positions available, for people with all kinds of experience.
The Australian Red Cross
The Red Cross was established during World War I to offer assistance to the wounded on the battlefield. These days, it works with the most vulnerable people and communities in Australia and internationally, providing aid during emergencies, increasing national and international development and working with marginalised groups. You can search for volunteer opportunities, including saving lives by booking a time to give a much-needed blood donation.
Guide Dogs Australia
Guide Dogs Australia represents Australia’s six state-based Guide Dog organisations. The organisation assists people who are blind or have vision impairment to gain independence by facilitating the training of guide dogs in Australia. Find out how to become guide dog trainer or volunteer for other available positions in your state here.
