Retirement volunteer at Food Bank

by Joy
(Cal.)

I did not intend to 'retire' until I was 70 years old, however, I was laid-off from my last job during the current economic slump. Jobs were scarce, and, face it, age discrimination in hiring is a fact.

Since I had no rocking chair at home, and, indeed, I am not one to sit at home watching soap operas on TV--not to mention I have no TV--I found many opportunites to volunteer in the area where I live.

I began volunteering at the local food coop as a means to stretch my food budget. By volunteering 4 hours a week I get a larger discount on what I buy than that offered to seniors. The most fortunate connection for volunteering I made was with the local Food Bank--a good cause and a way to give back to the community.

Over two years ago I began by volunteering 4 hours a week as a front desk receptionist. It did not take long for me to realize how wonderful a place the Food Bank was to work for. I can say without exaggeration that it is the very best place I have ever worked in my life--and I had to wait this long to find it.

Just a few weeks ago, the Food Bank offered me a part-time position--it's very part-time but I coildn't be happier. To sum up, I am currently volunteering at three places, working at one of those and saying "Where's the time going?"

When I am not working I read a great deal--the library is just a long block from where I live; I am addicted to working crossword puzzles; and I try to squeeze in those things that I put off during my life that I would pursue when I 'retired'. Life couldn't be better. I am the happiest I have ever been.

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