By Greg Pascucci
‘Tis the season for giving. But, did you know there is scientific proof that those who give of their time and talents tend to lead happier and healthier lives than those who do not? From lowering blood pressure to increasing self-esteem, volunteering offers numerous benefits.
At The Carlisle Naples, thanks to the active retirement community’s maintenance-free lifestyle, residents find they now have more time to pursue new interests and hobbies, including being of service to others.
Plus, thanks to a full-time Program Director, those wishing to volunteer have access to a wealth of opportunities without having to seek out service projects.
Whether serving on our Welcoming Committee, meeting and greeting new residents; being part of our Resident Council and serving as a liaison between residents and management; or volunteering in the community at large, residents are happy to give back.
Below are a few ways you too can volunteer this holiday season and throughout the upcoming year:
Share Your Expertise
Were you a former chairman or an accountant? Consider sharing your knowledge with entrepreneurs as they try to avoid the pitfalls of small business ownership. Organizations such as SCORE provide confidential business mentoring services and host workshops to help small business owners achieve success. Retired executives and CEOs are always welcomed.
Become a Foster Grandparent
With families living further apart than previous generations, it’s not unusual for young adults to see their grandparents infrequently. Becoming a foster grandparent can be a rewarding experience for young and old alike. Intergenerational activities help bridge the gap between older adults and teenagers and shatter misconceptions about aging.
Tap into Your Hobbies
Seniors who enjoy knitting or crocheting will find their crafts can be enjoyed by more than just family and friends. From hospitals to oncology departments, there are many organizations that can make use of baby hats and lap blankets.
Support a Cause
Post-retirement is the perfect time to champion a cause which may be near and dear to one’s heart. Homelessness, education, women’s equality and accessibility to health care are just a few of the areas in which older adults can lend their voice. A simple internet search will be able to locate a charity that addresses each respective issue. From making telephone calls to writing letters of support, there is a task for everyone looking to get involved.
Look Around – Opportunities Abound
Cuddling a premature baby in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), walking a dog at an animal shelter or greeting guests at a museum are just a few of the numerous tasks performed by volunteers across the country. Organizations such as Senior Corps and AARP are wonderful resources for matching older adults’ talents and interests with noteworthy charities in need of assistance.
“The Carlisle is truly a community within a community. Residents volunteer to service on committees, facilitate educational programs and more,” said Executive Director Bill Diamond. “Our ongoing partnership with Sabal Palm Elementary also provides a lot of fun volunteer opportunities for residents throughout the year. They enjoy donating their time even before the children visit for Christmas, helping with decorations and dressing as Mr. & Mrs. Claus. It’s truly a win-win for residents and the students alike.”
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and a complimentary full breakfast plus choice of lunch or dinner in the community’s gourmet-style restaurant. For more information about the community, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
The Carlisle, a luxury, resort-style senior living community in North Naples, offers both Independent and Assisted Living lifestyles. Available on a monthly fee basis, the ECC-licensed and CARF-accredited community boasts a full range of services and amenities including 12-hour restaurant dining, housekeeping, transportation and activities. Located on Airport-Pulling Road, between Pine Ridge and Immokalee Roads, the award-winning community’s lush tropical environment is highlighted with meandering walking paths around three lakes and tranquility gardens. For more information or to schedule a tour, please call Director of Marketing Greg Pascucci at 239-221-0017.
Luxury Rental Retirement Living
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, FL 34109
239-221-0017 . www.srgseniorliving.com