I’m declaring 2026 the Year of the Volunteer! Well, maybe it will just be true in my world. However, I think it’s a great idea for everyone to consider. I don’t think there’s a better way to engender hope in humankind than by investing time in each other’s well-being. And boy, are we in need of a little hope these days!
I’m inspired so far by the people I’ve interviewed for my book manuscript, Volunteerism in Older Adults, and I’m only getting started. I pitched the book to include interviews with 10 older adults (55+) who spend time meeting the needs of others, and I have several more interviews to schedule. I look forward to even more inspiring conversations.
I’ve talked with Rick, the coordinator of a Mobile Loaves and Fishes team that benefits unhoused people in Austin by preparing and delivering meals. He also coordinated a project a few years ago to resettle an Afghan family to Georgetown, Texas, a monumental effort involving many moving parts. The family is now settled and thriving, thanks to Rick and the many volunteers he recruited to donate funds, drive family members to jobs or school, assist with paperwork to apply for benefits they’re entitled to, teach some of the older children to drive, and much more.
I also spoke to a writer friend named Laurie, who inspires me with her devotion to serving those who are near death, as a volunteer with an Austin hospice organization and working on certification as a death doula with the International End of Life Doula Association (INELDA). Her dedication to those nearing the end of their lives grows out of several years volunteering with Mother Teresa’s missions in India, Ethiopia, and Peru. Not to mention four years travelling throughout the world to work with and learn from others. It takes a special sort of individual to share the last days or weeks with another human being to provide them comfort and dignity in death.
I have an interview scheduled next week with a friend who’s been active for several years in advocating for justice in political systems. Her nonpartisan work is deeply involved with a political process that benefits all. I’m looking forward to learning more about her work and her motivations in doing it. Her service is badly needed in today’s political climate.
Inspired yet? I certainly am! My volunteer efforts are more modest than those of the people I’ve interviewed. However, I’m convinced that even small acts of kindness for the benefit of others are vitally important. It doesn’t need to be complicated or formal. If a family member needs care after a health crisis or permanent care after a disability, if a friend needs you to be present for genuine conversation after a loss, or if a coworker is ill and needs a meal delivered, letting your friend or loved one know they matter is the essential element of volunteer service.
I’m still looking to interview volunteers who are 55 or over to talk with and would like to schedule Zoom interviews with people who perform a variety of volunteer services in many US locations, in both formal and informal capacities. If you know someone I should talk to, please let me know. I will add them to my Year of the Volunteer Heroes list.
Janice Airhart 