Why Volunteer?
Many organizations rely on volunteers to provide needed time, skills, and services. In addition to helping others, studies have shown that older adult volunteering in stimulating environments with good supervision benefit from*:
- Greater longevity
- Lower rates of depression
- Higher functional ability
- Less incidence of heart disease
- Increased self-esteem
- Feelings of productivity and meaning in later life
- Social connectivity
*2007, Corporation for National and Community Service
Retirement is a time of transition, and for many retirees volunteering becomes an important and fulfilling way to replace the social role of a job, to develop more skills, to contribute to their community, to make friends, and to continue living an enriching and valued life.
The UC Berkeley Retirement Center works with several campus and community organizations to ensure that retirees will find enjoyable volunteer opportunities for growth and learning. Take a look at our listings of campus, Bay Area and national volunteer opportunities, above, and check back often to see if we have any new opportunities posted. Additionally, be sure to get on the Retirement Center’s email notification list (send your email address and name to ucbrc@berkeley.edu) to receive the most up-to-date announcements.
Check our Volunteer Resources to aid you in your pursuit of the perfect opportunity.