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Retire-To Volunteering

Host Ed Zinkiewicz uncovers engaging—sometimes surprising, but never dull— volunteer opportunities available to retirees. Interviewing volunteers and volunteer coordinators each week, Ed highlights the meaningful contributions volunteers make and also the rewards volunteers receive. Imagining a retirement that matters starts here. Sign up for Ed's free, weekly newsletter at retiretovolunteering.com and get listings of coming episodes.
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Jan 17, 2018

051 Julie Kramer–Adult Literacy Council

Volunteers Teach More Than 1,700 Adults to Read and Succeed Yearly

Julie Kramer is high on the Nashville Adult Literacy Council (NALC) for its two main goals: Teaching American adults to read and teaching English skills to adult immigrants. Working with classes and through mentoring, nearly 600 volunteers teach more than 1,700 adults each year to read and succeed.

 

Isolated by the need for a new language, immigrants can turn to NALC for assistance. Becoming more proficient enables newcomers to gain access to the larger community by being able to talk to and understand grocers, doctors, potential employers, and so forth. Learning English allows parents to help their children with school. And the NALC’s citizenship classes facilitate the family’s move toward citizenship.

 

Not being able to read also isolates thousands of adult Americans. Nearly one in eight Nashville adults can’t read at a functional level. Inability to read labels, complete an application form, comprehend a bill, understand a child’s grade card or homework, and so on limits persons’ economic quality of life and also affects their physical and emotional health and family and social relationships. Depending on others to read is both inefficient and humiliating. NALC classes offer remedial reading for those seeking to enter high school equivalency classes.

Volunteers make the difference. Find out more about the program, apply to volunteer, or check the monthly training schedule at nashvilleliteracy.org or email info@nashvilleliteracy.org.

Find other episodes in this series at www.retiretovolunteering.com and https://www.facebook.com/EZVolunteering/                  

Support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Jan 10, 2018

050 Betti Lose–VITA Tax Prep

Joyfully Serving the Community—St. Luke’s Community House

Community volunteer, Betti Lose, enjoys a variety of opportunities at St. Luke’s Community House to help the many people served by that organization. In the course of a few weeks, she might do administrative tasks, schedule free Volunteer Income Tax Preparation (VITA) sessions, assist a senior citizen playing bingo, or shelve books in the large and inviting preschool library.

St. Luke’s mission is both to help low-income families, seniors, and individuals in West Nashville achieve their potential and to prevent problems that threaten the stability of families and community. The organization works on that mission every day, but January through April they specifically accomplish it by providing free income tax preparation for Nashville area residents with incomes of $64,000 or less. Trained volunteers prepare taxes at no cost to the taxpayer. Refunds are electronically deposited into the client’s bank account. These volunteers work with clients by appointment. Betti schedules those appointments.

More information about this vital VITA program is available at their website www.stlch.org. For more details, call St. Luke’s front office at 615-350-7893. Christie Bearden, Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager, can be reached directly at 615-324-8375 or christie.bearden@stlukescommunityhouse.org.

Find other episodes in this series at retiretovolunteering.com.

Support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Jan 3, 2018

049 Bill Farris–Habitat for Humanity

From Banker to Builder—Thanks to Habitat for Humanity

Bill Farris is always learning. Each time he volunteers with Habitat for Humanity he learns something—how to swing a hammer, use a saw safely, measure accurately…and it’s fun. He describes a day with Habitat as seeing “ants on crackers”…in other words, a swarm of folks helping to create a home! A retired banker, Bill now thinks of himself as a builder.

“Don’t think you can build a house? Join a Habitat group and see what you can accomplish,” Bill challenges everyone. Not only do volunteers have the opportunity to learn new skills, but also they can use their existing skills, including painting, landscaping, and even clean up, to finish out the construction. Men, women, and older teens can be part of the team, and the time commitment is flexible.

An ecumenical Christian ministry, Habitat for Humanity provides the life-changing opportunity for people to own affordable quality homes. Habitat family members participate in learning about home ownership and then invest “sweat equity” as they work alongside the volunteers. They too are gaining new skills, and they are also acquiring the dignity of seeing what their own work has achieved and an appreciation for the belief in them exhibited by the commitment of so many volunteers. Together, the families and the volunteers create safer neighborhoods for more children and facilitate a pathway of hope for those served.

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Nashville builds 32–50 houses a year in a four-county area. With that many homes to build each year, Habitat is always looking for additional construction volunteers. If you are interested in building as a group, or as an individual, please visit their website www.habitatnashville.org for additional information.

Find other episodes in this series at retiretovolunteering.com.

Support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Dec 27, 2017

048 Sherri Settles–Tennessee Donor Services

Improving Lives by Connecting People—Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation

Everyone has an opportunity to leave a legacy as a registered organ and tissue donor. As a donor, you can save and improve lives of individuals in need of a lifesaving transplant and those whose lives are impacted by tissue donation. Or you can volunteer as an ambassador, telling your story to community groups of how giving or receiving an organ or tissue donation has had an impact on you and your family. Or you can help get the word out through mailings, special projects, and participating in the big fundraising concert. Volunteering at any level helps connect people who have great need with those who can give of themselves.

Sherri Settles, staff with Tennessee Donor Services, talks about how volunteers, donors, and families make donation and transplantation possible. By mobilizing the power of people and the potential of technology, Tennessee Donor Services extend the reach of each donor’s gift, honoring their gift of life. Visit the Tennessee Donor Services website (tds.dcids.org) for more information.

Find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com.

Support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Dec 20, 2017

047 Ron Schlagheck—Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels—More Than Just a Meal

For Ron Schlagheck and his wife, the invitation to drive for Meals on Wheels came from their church. Volunteers at various churches often take turns preparing the meals. Other volunteers deliver them.

The recipients are usually homebound and are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals due to health and/or physical limitations. These individuals not only enjoy the hot nutritional meals, but also the visits from volunteers who care about them and make sure that they are doing well.

The recipients are not only receivers, but also givers. Kindness and appreciation abound. Ron and his wife continue to be amazed at the reception they receive each time they make their delivery!

In addition to Meals on Wheels, Ron’s days are busy volunteering in local community councils, University of Florida Alumni Association, STEM mentoring, AARP advocacy, and church projects.

For more information, visit a Meals on Wheels website.

Find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com.

Support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Dec 13, 2017

046 Tiffany Cloud—Alzheimer’s Association

Alzheimer’s Outreach—More Awareness Needed

Tiffany Cloud-Mann, Vice President of Programs & Outreach for the Mid-South Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, helps work on the global, national, and local levels to enhance care and support for all those affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

The Mid South Chapter offers several educational programs for community members and families facing Alzheimer's. Locally, volunteers assist with health fairs and in the office preparing mailings and answering inquiries. Other volunteers use their expertise as speakers on behalf of the Association or as organizers for the big fundraising walks. Yet others get sponsors and make the walk.

At the state and federal level, the Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voice for Alzheimer's disease advocacy, fighting for critical Alzheimer's research, prevention, and care initiatives. The organization diligently works to make Alzheimer’s a national priority. In this interview Tiffany speaks to how volunteers can make a difference for this vital work, as well.

The organization provides caregivers and families with comprehensive online resources and information through their Alzheimer's and Dementia Caregiver Center and a professionally staffed 24/7 daily, a helpline (1-800-272-3900), which offers information and advice to more than 300,000 callers each year and provides translation services in more than 200 languages. For more information visit alz.org.

Find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com.

You can support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Dec 6, 2017

045 Susan Brown—The Little Pantry That Could

Serving Those in Need—The Little Pantry With a Big Heart

After teaching elementary school for 37 years, Susan Brown found another way to make a connection with others: serving neighbors who are in need through The Little Pantry That Could. After a “100-Year” flood in Nashville in 2010, Stacy Cowney realized that access to healthy food wasn’t a widely available resource. She committed to changing that, and The Little Pantry That Could, which she directs, was born.

Giving food provisions like fresh fruits and vegetables, and a variety of shelf-stable goods to anyone in need is the volunteers’ primary mission, but shoppers have other needs, as well. And in whatever way Little Pantry volunteers can help, they will. Susan and other volunteers make personal connections with each shopper, letting them know that they are cared for and that they are important. Also, staff and volunteers believe that having a choice gives persons a sense of dignity, and so visitors are able to take what they need without question.

Born and raised in Nashville, Susan has retired and has also become a Master Gardener. She loves gardening and hiking and volunteering. Three days a week, she is making the world a kinder place, helping those in need.

The Little Pantry opens its doors to people all over Davidson and surrounding counties. To find out more about this unique organization, visit www.thelittlepantrythatcould.org or call or text 615-260-5769.

You can find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com.

You can support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Nov 29, 2017

044 Monk Baird—Habitat for Humanity

Bringing People Together—To Build Homes, Communities, and Hope

From wife, mother, and homemaker to Habitat insulation specialist, Monk Baird leaves no stone unturned or any grass growing under her feet! A true Nashville community volunteer, she has an impact far and wide, making a difference by delivering Meals on Wheels, preparing and serving meals for Loaves and Fishes, and insulating and building homes for Habitat for Humanity in greater Nashville as well as on the Gulf Coast after a hurricane and in Ireland and Hawaii. Asked how many houses she has helped build…a long pause…“too many to count,” she replied.

“It’s fun, and it makes you feel good,” Monk says about why she volunteers, adding, “If I didn’t stay physically active, I would be atrophied.” Directly helping others is what her life all about. Needless to say in her 85+ years, she not only has made a difference to many, but also has served as an example and mentor to even more.

At Habitat of Humanity, they build. They build because they believe that everyone, everywhere, should have a healthy, affordable place to call home. Volunteers make the homes possible! Churches, businesses, and other organizations offer opportunities to volunteer with a group for a one-day or complete build. Individuals may also volunteer.

To learn more about Habitat, visit www.habitat.org. For additional information specific to Nashville, visit: www.habitatnashville.org.

You can find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com.

You can support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Nov 22, 2017

043 Beth Howard–The Café at Thistle Farms

The Café at Thistle Farms—Home to Anyone Who Walks Through Their Doors

Growing up in a conservative household in the Bible belt, Beth Howard learned very early in life that any honest job is one of which to be proud. After meeting friends for coffee numerous times at The Café at Thistle Farms, Beth felt called to volunteer in The Café helping in countless ways. It wasn’t long before she knew she was in the right place—giving back to others by waiting on tables, taking out the garbage, and any job which allowed the ladies of Magdalene to spend more time interacting with customers.

The Café feels like home to anyone who walks through the doors. It was built and staffed by the Magdalene graduates and dedicated volunteers. It is a warm and inviting spot for catching up with friends, enjoying a homemade meal, sipping a cup of tea or coffee, or sharing a story—and for discovering or reaffirming that Love Heals!

Beth cut her professional life cut short to make time to take care of a son with cancer and her aging mother. Beth feels she’s being as deliberate about future choices as well. She shares, “I’m taking each day as it comes, doing all I can to volunteer my time to causes that are most meaningful to me. For today, it’s working. “

For more information about Magdalene, Thistle Farms, and The Café at Thistle Farms go to the website: thistlefarms.org.

You can find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com.

You can support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Nov 15, 2017

042 Bill Miller—Bible Study in Prison

Offering Prisoners a New Way of Life

In a maximum security prison, Bill Miller, a retired pastor, invites inmates to discover new life through their weekly study of the Bible and other related materials*. As inmates and volunteer alike read, reflect, discuss commentary, and then share how God is speaking to them through the study that particular week, they develop respect for one another, even when they disagree, and find a community of caring. Bill notes those who attend these studies at Riverbend, the prison, are just like every other group he has led.

Bill has also been able to mentor inmates and parolees, lead worship and serve Communion, be a part of the serving team at the Christmas dinner, attend parole hearings, be a pen pal, and visit with inmates. Bill says, “I marvel at the ways in which the involvement of persons with inmates and parolees has transformed the lives of those reaching out to establish relationships as well as those being served.” He reminds us—“in giving we receive and in receiving we give.” Bill talks about putting ourselves in position to find how God graces us in our reaching out to God, to one another, and to the hurting people all around us.

To reach out to prisoners or parolees, check with your local church or denominational office.

*The studies Bill most often uses are in the Disciple Bible Study series, available at cokesbury.com or Amazon.com.

You can find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com.

You can support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Nov 8, 2017

041 Brandi Ghergia—Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)—Amazing Results

As the senior manager of the Nashville Alliance for Financial Independence at United Way of Metropolitan Nashville, Brandi Ghergia manages four financial stability programs—Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), the Nashville Financial Empowerment Center, Bank On Music City, and the Nashville Alliance for Financial Independence. The VITA program, with the help of over 260 dedicated volunteers, produced over 15,000 income tax returns in a 30-county area in 2016, resulting in nearly $24 million in tax refunds in Middle Tennessee.

The impact VITA is making is amazing. Volunteers don’t have to have a tax preparation background, but they do need to know about computers and be friendly…no grumpy volunteers! Not only do the people helped return each year, but also the volunteers. The service, performed by the volunteers in both a professional and caring manner, creates a sense of community that invites reconnecting from tax season to tax season.

United Way is making a better Nashville by creating strategic, scalable solutions focused on education, financial stability, and health—the building blocks for a good life! A quality education leads to a stable job, enough income to support a family through retirement, and good health. Creating solutions in these areas moves people from dependence to independence.

Links:

Local, Nashville, TN volunteers: www.volunteerforvita.org.

Out-of-state volunteering: www.irs.com.

Taxpayers: www.unitedwayfilefree.com.

Phone number and email address for volunteers:

   615.861-3008

   Tamara.Kreigh@uwmn.org

 

You can find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com.

Please support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Nov 1, 2017

040 Jo-Ann Heidenreich—Parthenon Docent

Parthenon Docent Program—Sharing a Love of History and Art

“You don’t need to know anything ahead of time to volunteer “—these are the words of Jo-Ann Heidenreich, a current volunteer for Nashville’s Parthenon Docent Program. Her love of art and Greek mythology is a perfect match for the opportunity to serve as an ambassador, promoting awareness and providing education about the Parthenon.

Jo-Ann’s work as a teacher and administrator for Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools for thirty years and as an educational consultant in more than twelve states, including Tennessee, set the stage for her vital role as docent.

As docents for the Parthenon, volunteers become teachers, guides, givers of directions, and public relations experts—all in one. The program, which started in 1998, is now in its third decade. Docents are work four to eight hours a month at the iconic Nashville attraction and commit to one year in various volunteer duties.

To obtain further information or to participate in this fascinating program, contact the Parthenon at info@parthenon.org or call 615-862-8431. For other volunteer opportunities as a docent, contact museums, historical homes, or other locations of historical or artistic importance in your community.

You can find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com.

Please support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Oct 25, 2017

039 Scott Steedley—International Center for Sustainability

Working With Nature for Good!

More people are becoming aware of the need for re-engaging with the earth in ways that are sustainable. But what to do about the issue? Scott Steedly, the founder of the International Center for Sustainability, has concrete—no, make that, “cob and bottle”— ideas!

The Center willingly customizes volunteer opportunities in numerous projects, including ecotourism, agro-tourism, educational programs, litter control, re/up-cycling, watershed re-nourishment, food-source and rainwater harvesting, wastewater management, beautification, team-building, animal husbandry, wildlife protection, resource preservation, appropriate technology models, events, and natural “cob and bottle” building.

Customizing also means accommodating the time a volunteer is able to give and locations desired (currently within South Carolina, Tennessee, Costa Rica, Belize, and other areas in Central America).

In addition to gaining knowledge and experience, volunteers report benefits from reconnecting with nature, working alongside others who share the passion, and feeling empowered to help others become more aware and engaged in caring for Mother Earth.

For more information, check the Facebook page (International Center for Sustainability) or the website: www.centerforsustainability.net.

You can find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com or on iTunes, iOS app Podcast, or Android app Stitcher with a search on Retire To Volunteering.

You can support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Oct 18, 2017

038 Judy Davis—School Volunteer

Helping Children Succeed in School—and Life!

With a passion for helping children learn and excel, Judy Davis volunteered with one of Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools. Assigned to a first grade class, she spent a full year one day a week, working one on one with every student. She assisted both those who were advanced and those who struggled with learning.

Judy enjoys children and recognizes that this special attention makes a difference in their lives. She encourages others to visit or call individual schools and ask about volunteer opportunities, which include not only tutoring but also many other ways to contribute to student success. Below are various ways to explore the opportunities:

• Contact a school directly to learn about volunteer opportunities.

• For district volunteer opportunities, contact the Family Information Center at 615-259-4636 or email familyinfo@mnps.org.

• Contact the Pencil Foundation, one of our community partners that coordinate volunteers on behalf of schools.

• Complete the volunteer registration form: http://www.pencilfoundation.org/registration.

You can find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com or on iTunes, iOS app Podcast, or Android app Stitcher with a search on Retire To Volunteering.

You can support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

 

Oct 11, 2017

037 Betti Lose–Christmas Adoption

Joyfully Serving the Community–St. Lukes Community House

During Christmas Community volunteer Betti Lose goes above and beyond in everything she does, including assisting at St. Lukes Community House where she received the Joe Sowell Legacy Volunteer Award, their highest recognition given to people who give their time, talent, and heart to help those in need.

Betti enjoys the variety of opportunities at St. Lukes to help the many people served by that organization, and especially the annual Christmas Adopt-a-Family program.

During the Christmas season, volunteer donors can adopt a family and purchase modest gifts for the children and parents. Families pay $5 to register for the program. St. Lukes hosts a Christmas House where families can pick up the gifts.

For additional information, visit St. Lukes website www.stlch.org or call the front desk at 615-350-7893. Or contact Christie Bearden, Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager, directly at 615-324-8375 or christie.bearden@stlukescommunityhouse.org.

You can find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com or on iTunes, iOS app Podcast, or Android app Stitcher with a search on Retire To Volunteering.

You can support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Oct 4, 2017

036 Cecelia Schlagheck–Leading the Way, Finding the Means

If a group needs it done, Cecilia can do it!

Starting with the T-shirt sales at the elementary school and on through running the Halloween bazaars of the older students, Cecilia, then a stay-at-home mom, saw firsthand the need not just for fundraising but specifically for someone to take a leadership role assisting others on ways and means committees. Since then, Cecelia has had a steady stream of helping create successful events, both working with students and with other adults:

As a teacher she became the Junior Class sponsor. She helped the students organize the junior-senior prom. Students had to choose a theme, create table arrangements, decide on the background for pictures, make decisions and carry out much more. Cecelia's leadership gave students not only a successful event, but also a model for learning leadership themselves.

As a member of the Arnold Engineering Development Center Woman's Club on the Air Force Base in Tullahoma, TN, Cecelia turned her attention to the annual Christmas Boutique. With her leadership, her team collected unwanted items, reimagined them, and then sold them. Proceeds funded needed scholarships.

Cecelia says, For me working with others to find the ways and means is a rewarding activity. Not too many people will step up to lead. Many will help, when they can, but I can provide the vision and drive to help others find new and creative ways to earn monies especially for scholarship. Also, our upcoming leaders need a boost, and I am willing to do all I can to help them along.

You can find other episodes in the series at retiretovolunteering.com.

You can support this series at patreon.com/volunteering.

Sep 27, 2017

035 Kathy Hannen–State Health Insurance-Assistance Program (SHIP)

A SHIP to Help You Navigate Medicare—for Free!

Kathy Hannen is a volunteer for the State Health Insurance-Assistance Program (SHIP), which is a free health-benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their families or caregivers. SHIP’s mission is to educate, advocate, counsel, and empower people to make informed healthcare benefit decisions. SHIP is an independent program funded by federal agencies and is not affiliated with the insurance industry.

If you are on Medicare, check the back of your Medicare book for your state’s contact information. Not yet enrolled? Use the link below. Volunteers are readily available to assist you. They’ll require some information from you, such as the medications you are currently taking, in order to identify the different plans that might fit your needs.

Or look for a SHIP event in your community. People eligible for Medicare can often attend a “Medicare Monday” workshop and learn about options for healthcare the coming year. The service is free and staffed by knowledgeable and compassionate volunteers like Kathy.

The State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) Website: www.seniorsresourceguide.com/directories/National/SHIP/.

For more about coming podcasts, sign up for Ed’s free Retire-To newsletter: retire-to.com/ed-s-newsletter and visit retiretovolunteering.com.

Sep 20, 2017

034 Sam Bowman—Brethren Volunteer Service

Brethren Volunteer Service—For Those Wanting a Life Adventure

Brethren Volunteer Service places volunteers in a six-month, one-, or two-year assignment in the United States and around the world, focusing on peace, justice, service to those in need, and care for creation. This Church of the Brethren ministry, which has been active since 1948, is open to all persons regardless of their faith tradition and even to those who claim no religious tradition. The program served as a model for the development of the Peace Corps. Older adults are especially welcome.

Sam Bowman, who has served in two very different assignments, values especially the three-week orientation that helps volunteers discern where their passion, call, skills, and desire to grow fit with the “hundred” opportunities that the Brethren Volunteer Service coordinates. Sam matched his own farm background and interest in the outdoors with an assignment to a camping program for people with disabilities.

In a second assignment, Sam has worked with the three-week orientation events, which are held three times a year in various parts of the country. That experience has given him a wealth of stories and an appreciation for the “adventure of a lifetime” that volunteers discover as they find their place helping a world in need.

For more information, visit http://www.brethren.org/bvs/.

For more about coming podcasts, sign up for Ed’s free Retire-To newsletter: retire-to.com/ed-s-newsletter and visit retiretovolunteering.com.

 

Sep 13, 2017

033 Kay Gray–Room in the Inn

There is Room in the Inn!

Room in the Inn (RITI) was formed when four congregations started working together in 1986 to shelter homeless people during the coldest months. Now nearly 190 congregations in Middle Tennessee provide safe haven overnight to nearly 1,400 men and women November through March. The rest of the year the organization offers emergency services, transitional support, and long-term solutions to help these people rebuild their lives.

West End United Methodist Church in Nashville is one of the participating congregations. Kay Gray and her husband, Buddy DeFord, coordinate Room in the Inn at that location. Kay speaks highly of the service through the winter months at her church. She says, “I sleep better at night knowing I’m doing some little something to help those who otherwise would have to sleep out on park benches.”

Retiring after 37 years as a pastor herself, Kay also knows the importance of inviting others to serve. Room in the Inn is a ministry that can use the time, talents, and caring of many people at whatever level they are able to help. To paraphrase a proverb: “It takes a congregation...”!

Information about Room In The Inn can be found at www.roomintheinn.org.

For more about coming podcasts, sign up for Ed’s free Retire-To newsletter: retire-to.com/ed-s-newsletter and visit retiretovolunteering.com.

 

Sep 6, 2017

032 Crys Zinkiewicz – Saddle Up!

Horsing Around–Good for Kids and Volunteers

“Mom, go ride your horse—you’ll be a nicer person!” For years, family members knew the value of horseback riding for Crys Zinkiewicz. Being outside, with her horse, riding with friends, having fun—all added up to a calmer, stronger, happier Mom. When she retired, Crys followed her passion for horses to Saddle Up!, a therapeutic riding center for children with disabilities.

“I didn’t know much about kids with special needs,” she admits, “but I knew I could clean stalls if nothing else. However, the training at Saddle Up! gave me the confidence I needed. My nine years as a volunteer there have been wonderful. I know how being with horses has helped me through the years, and now I also see the ‘magic’ they work again and again with the children.

”Saddle Up! has been helping children for more than 25 years. Starting with only ten children, four borrowed horses, and four volunteers, the program now regularly serves more than 250 children each year. To do so takes 500 volunteers! Horse experience is not required. Neither is experience with children with disabilities. A wide variety of volunteer opportunities, with varying time commitments, excellent training, and continuing support for volunteers make Saddle Up! a great place to give back.

For more about Saddle Up! visit saddleupnashville.org.

For more about coming podcasts, sign up for Ed’s free Retire-To newsletter: retire-to.com/ed-s-newsletter and visit retiretovolunteering.com.

 

Aug 30, 2017

031 Paulette Broadbent–Sewing American Girl Doll Outfits

American Dolls–Recipients of One-of-a-Kind Handmade Outfits

Paulette Broadbent isn’t your average seamstress. She has been sewing since she was twelve years old. Her grandmother and mother knew this seemingly “lost art” might be a worthy hobby for a young girl. It wasn’t long before Paulette was using her babysitting money to buy patterns and material to create clothes for herself as well as Raggedy Ann dolls and robes for her family!

Paulette’s passion for creating led her to sew her wedding dress and years later numerous dresses for her daughter and tiny clothes for her Barbie doll. With the granddaughters came a new opportunity. To the delight of the girls, their American Girl dolls are now the recipients of Grandma’s one-of-a-kind outfits.

But Paulette doesn’t just sew to benefit her own family. She also creates and donates doll clothes to churches for their silent auction fundraising. Additionally, she sells the special outfits and tithes the income. The remaining money helps keep her sewing more!

For more about coming podcasts, sign up for Ed’s free Retire-To newsletter: retire-to.com/ed-s-newsletter and visit retiretovolunteering.com.

Aug 23, 2017

030 Everett Davis–Bookkeeping & Morgan Scott

Two Different Ways of “Doing Good for Someone Else”

In Everett Davis’s own words, he gravitates to “doing good for someone else.” Retiring after a career in a bank’s accounting department, Everett found that his expertise in the world of finance (his “head” knowledge) led him not only to volunteer to help his local church with its general ledger but also to assist the broader world of Christian churches. When the international organization, World Convention, needed a financial person, Everett was asked to share his time and talents. World Convention works globally to connect various branches of Christian churches in fellowship, understanding, and common purpose for the sake of unity in Christ Jesus.

Through their local church, Everett and his wife, Judy, also give their hearts to a very different volunteer opportunity. After a series of visits to the most poverty stricken counties of Tennessee, Morgan and Scott, Everett and Judy realized this project was an outreach to which they wanted to devote their time and energy. The Morgan-Scott Project serves the counties’ elderly, disabled, and unemployed persons through activities, training, assistance, and support to help break the cycle of poverty and enable people to help themselves.

Ambassadors for the Morgan-Scott Project, Everett and Judy have been instrumental in recruiting volunteers and donors in Nashville. Storing clothing, shoes, and appliances…actually most anything…in someone’s garage is the norm. When the storage space is filled, a caravan of volunteers travels to Morgan and Scott counties with their wares—all of which will be sold in a store similar to Goodwill—to benefit both the Project, as well as the families who live in these impoverished areas.

For more information about these two organizations, visit worldconvention.org and morganscottproject.org.

For more about coming podcasts, sign up for Ed’s free Retire-To newsletter: retire-to.com/ed-s-newsletter and visit retiretovolunteering.com.

Aug 16, 2017

029 Anna Kapoor—Volunteers in Mission

Volunteers in Mission-Making a Difference Domestically and Internationally

Anna Kapoor is making a difference wherever she goes. Professionally she has served as a registered nurse in oncology, and now as a retiree she volunteers with the United Methodist Volunteers in Mission (VIM). Having been part of 18 mission trips, she currently arranges specific trips, especially for the Mexico Medical Mission. She knows from her own participation that volunteers of all kinds are needed, not only medical but also those in a helping capacity. Anna promises that no previous experience is necessary—just a willingness to serve.

United Methodist Volunteers in Mission exists to promote, encourage and enable Christians to exemplify “Christian Love in Action” through short-term mission service at home and abroad. It provides opportunities for service by developing and nurturing relationships with domestic and international leaders. The VIM program continually nurtures their contacts with these leaders to respond to the needs of local communities. The organization also provides comprehensive training resources for team leaders to help them prepare their teams for the mission field.

For more information visit their website www.umvim.org or contact UNITED METHODIST VOLUNTEERS IN MISSION, 100 Centerview Drive, Suite 210, Birmingham, AL 35216. Phone 205-453-9480 or email sejinfo@umvim.org.

For more about coming podcasts, sign up for Ed’s free Retire-To newsletter: retire-to.com/ed-s-newsletter and visit retiretovolunteering.com.

Aug 9, 2017

028 Bob Lewis—Council on Aging

Middle Tennessee Council on Aging

Bob Lewis’s education in management plus his career experiences in large corporations, including Xerox and Northern Telecom, prepared him well for his volunteering in retirement. Having moved to Nashville, he soon discovered this was the place to put down roots and work on behalf of the community.

For many years now, Bob has volunteered for Middle Tennessee’s Council on the Aging. He volunteered in several different programs and found a special match for his managerial and strategic planning skills as he served on the COA's Board of Directors for a six-year term. He is also active in Toastmasters, honing his communication skills. He is pleased to say that both competencies are ways he is able to give back to the community.

For information on Council on Aging of Middle Tennessee, visit their website: www.coamidtn.org.

For more about coming podcasts, sign up for Ed’s free Retire-To newsletter: retire-to.com/ed-s-newsletter and visit retiretovolunteering.com.

Aug 2, 2017

027 Betti Lose—Food Programs

Joyfully Serving the Community—St. Luke’s Community House

Community volunteer Betti Lose goes above and beyond in everything she does. St. Luke’s Community House presented her the Joe Sowell Legacy Volunteer Award, the agency’s highest volunteer award, which is given annually to a volunteer who gives of herself or himself, champions St. Luke’s to others, and sets a great example of servant leadership. Sounds like Betti Lose, for sure.

Betti enjoys the variety of opportunities at St. Luke’s, helping the many people served by that organization. On any given day, she might do administrative tasks, schedule free VITA income tax preparation, assist a senior citizen playing bingo, or shelve books in the wonderful preschool library. She is also the volunteer coordinator for St. Luke’s food programs.

She is continually impressed with the staff, facility, and other volunteers who help the people who live in the neighborhood. Betti says, “I’m embarrassed to be honored for doing something I love doing. My heart is so filled—I haven’t words to describe how I feel.”

St. Luke’s mission is both to help low-income families, seniors, and other individuals in West Nashville achieve their potential and to prevent problems that threaten the stability of families and community, such as food insecurity. From the many ways the agency reaches out, it seems they are accomplishing their mission every day!

An overview for the food programs at St. Luke’s is listed below. Visit their website www.stlch.org for additional information, as well as their front office at 615-350-7893. Christie Bearden, Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager, can be reached directly at 615-324-8375 or christie.bearden@stlukescommunityhouse.org.

Food Bank—Weekdays • 9:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m. St. Luke’s partners with Second Harvest Food Bank to provide emergency food boxes to families and individuals in need. Food boxes provide three meals for two days for each person in the household.

Mobile Meals—Weekdays. This service delivers hot, nutritious meals and a friendly visit to seniors and homebound individuals living in West Nashville.

For more about coming podcasts, sign up for Ed’s free Retire-To newsletter: retire-to.com/ed-s-newsletter and visit retiretovolunteering.com.

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