"Why Don't You Do Any Volunteering?"

    

The question was asked on a post -Much Needed Get Away which was older than four days so it went to moderation, so missed with the others so never answered on that post. Ang, thanks for your comment and question. It had me thinking a bit. To be honest, I've had similar takes on the question or the how do I spend all my free time, kind of questions in real life too, so while it took me aback for a moment, I took the comment or question as curiosity.

       I'll respond in two ways. First, here's a link to an article that sums up some thoughts on formal volunteering. The writer captures what I think many people feel as they enter or are in retirement, but not all resonated with me. The first, time, is obviously a choice on where we spend it. 

Five Reasons Why More People Don't Volunteer in Retirement. 

     My second way, is to share a bit on how I do spend my time and my personal reasons why I do some volunteering, but not really any formal commitments, at least for now. I do some volunteering, but nothing is a rigid commitment. I joined AAUW right after retiring. I've participated in several fundraising efforts for the women's scholarship fund and community service projects. This year, my sister and I are on the hospitality committee, organizing refreshments for the monthly meetings. While low commitment, having an inviting meeting environment helps with both attendance and recruitment. So, while its very much a social volunteer, monthly gig, it serves a need. 

    My family also does Adopt a Park, so do park clean-up a few times a year. I like that my flexible schedule let's me do ad hoc volunteering as needs come up. These have included bake sales for youth activities, vacation Bible school, and sorting and labeling items for a fundraising garage sale.

     Most importantly, my now flexible schedule has meant I can help my family when needed. Besides the regular pet sitting for my kids, I've been on call for dog walks, feeding cats, and school pick-ups, school activity transportation and school release day child care for nieces and nephews and even a few neighbors. I've helped with sick, injured, or post surgery for two sisters and my MIL. Most significantly, I was able to provide hospice care support for my brother, an honor I'll gladly take for any loved one should the need ever arise again.

     Could I be busier and more productive? I ask myself regularly if I'm maximizing my time. I consider my rare substitute teaching and very occasional contract work, dabbling. I don't need and it's not much money, but keeps my toes through a door should I want to do more. Otherwise, my days are like most retirees with housework, outside work,  reading, life admin, social outings, and some screen time, though trying to do less of that. I just don't want a schedule and don't want a dependency on my time by others. I had decades of picking up dropped balls and filling holes and after three decades of kids in multiple activities I'm good with passing that on. So, those are my reason for not doing more volunteering at least for now. What are your thoughts on using your time in retirement?