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Seniors are more likely to give their time to community and charitable organisations than any other age group.
Statistics show that 24 per cent of people aged over 60 work voluntarily. That compares to 12 per cent of 20 to 29 year olds.
Volunteering NZ chair Scott Miller says organisations that require volunteers are best served by seniors.
“Older people have an enormous amount of experience to give and are more consistent,” Mr Miller says.
“That makes them very attractive to voluntary organisations, particularly as their reliability in general is going to be better than younger people.”
Mr Miller says that seniors want a greater say in community decision-making, and volunteering offers them that outlet.
“They want purposeful roles that make real change. They say, ‘If I’m going to give you my time, then I want to be instrumental in making change and central to the organisation’s purpose’.”
Warkworth retiree Glyn Williams is typical of many seniors in the voluntary sector, volunteering for multiple roles. He is chair of the Warkworth Community Response Group, publicist for seniors education group, University of the Third Age (U3A), and is also a friend of Totara Park Retirement Village support group.
“It’s in my nature to be someone who does what they can for the community,” Glyn says.
“You vegetate if you don’t interact with your community and the best way to get involved is to volunteer.”
Warkworth and Districts Grey Power Association president Anne Martin says that although seniors volunteer for the greater good, volunteering is mutually beneficial.
“When you are retired, volunteering gives you back your place in society,” Anne says.
“It gives you self-worth, helps you stay connected and gets you back into the mainstream.”
