Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Greg Pascucci
Research shows there are a wealth of health benefits associated with volunteering. Giving of one’s time and talents instills a sense of purpose, increases physical and mental wellness, and is even tied to longevity. April is National Volunteer Month, dedicated to honoring volunteers and encouraging volunteerism.
At The Carlisle Naples, thanks to the active retirement community’s maintenance-free lifestyle, residents find they now have time to volunteer with organizations they find near and dear to their hearts. For example, the annual “From the Heart” initiative encourages random acts of kindness directed to local nonprofits, schools and even first-responders.
This year, The Carlisle selected the Guadalupe Center as the “From the Heart” recipient. As part of the “do-good-feel-good” event, residents and staff donated school supplies, shoes, toys and clothing. Fifty boxes were donated to the nonprofit whose mission is to break the cycle of poverty through education.
“This was more than just a project for The Carlisle team,” said Zest Director Marcia Aldana, who coordinated the donation. “We were thrilled to partner with the Guadalupe Center because they are a purpose-driven organization that creates endless possibilities for the children of Immokalee by providing access to quality education. Everyone came together to collect the items and have a great time doing it.”
Along with the donated items, Carlisle staff and resident Mallie Logan delivered pizza and juice boxes for all the children at the center. Logan says it was very meaningful to talk with students and listen to their stories.
“We strive to be good neighbors,” added Aldana. “Whether working with Sabal Palm Elementary School, which we have an ongoing partnership with or supporting our local fire department and EMS, residents relish opportunities to give back and support our external community.”
Studies continue to find that when young and old come together to form fun, meaningful relationships, both generations reap a wealth of emotional and physical benefits, including improved self-esteem and overall health.
There are numerous ways you can give back and reap the many benefits associated with volunteering:
• Reach out to the Local Library
Libraries are always in need of volunteers to read aloud to preschoolers. Older adults who are retired are perfect for this role which typically requires mid-morning hours. You’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’re playing a critical role in getting the youngsters prepared for school.
• Share Your Expertise
Were you a former chairman or a corporate executive? Why not share your breadth of 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.
• 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 that is 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 can locate a charity that addresses these issues. From making telephone calls to writing letters of support, there is a task for everyone looking to get involved.
• Look Around – Opportunities Abound
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.
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers independent and assisted living lifestyles featuring spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and delicious dining with daily, chef-prepared specials. The community is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an important distinction that provides residents with the assurance that the highest standards of quality care, services and safeguards are maintained. For more information about the community, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
Luxury Rental Retirement Living
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, FL 34109
239-221-0017 . www.TheCarlisleNaples.com