Volunteer services

While people are living longer today, negative age-related

stereotypes are still prevalent in our society. Unfortunately, health struggles and difficult changes in life chapters are a reality. Some people look back and want to hang onto the “good old days.” Reflection can be a good thing, but it can make it difficult to look forward, and imagine new opportunities before us and enjoy the present.

If you are asking where you can find new opportunities at “this age,” or what you can do, please consider volunteering. Sharing of yourself, your time, talents, and abilities is a precious gift to others. On top of that, as most volunteers attest, you will be rewarded in many ways.

We will work with you to find a volunteer opportunity that is a good match for you. Please feel free to give Cathy at Volunteer Services a call, 218-879-9238, ext. 102. Volunteers serve in just about every wonderful way imaginable. Just a few opportunities are:

• Volunteers needed to help with summer yard care for older adults or disabled individuals. Great opportunity for groups or families. Very flexible schedule and time commitment.

• Seeking volunteers to give hand massages to patients. Will train. Very flexible time commitment and schedule.

• Therapeutic horseback riding organization seeking volunteers to assist as horse leaders, side-walkers, and in other capacities. Flexible schedule. No experience necessary.

• Summer library programs seeking volunteers who love children and families to assist with children’s programming and special events. Flexible commitment.

Coming events

Refire! Volunteer Services of Carlton County hosts weekly meetings, featuring delicious luncheons and guest speakers or entertainment. The meetings encourage a healthful lifestyle and are geared toward adults age 55 and older, but everyone is welcome. Cost of the meal is $7 for 55 and older; $10 for all others. Mondays 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Weekly registration is required: call 218-879-9238 by 12 p.m. Thursday. Please check out the Volunteer Services of Carlton County Facebook page, call the above number, or see the weekly topics in the Pine Knot News Bulletin Board.

Carlton Wellness Center Fitness programs are designed to meet the individual needs of older adults and varied fitness levels. The Carlton Wellness Center is located at 199 Chestnut Ave. in Carlton. Tours are available. For more information, contact the center at 218-384-1115.

If you are interested in volunteering or would like more information, please call Volunteer Services and ask for Cathy Niemi, RSVP director, at 218-879-9238, x102.