Helping Others in 2006 Resolve to Volunteer This Year

By Jim Evans

It's something that people often think about but just never seem to get around to doing - helping others less fortunate than themselves. It's not that they don't care - after all, Americans are known for being generous and compassionate about the suffering of their fellow human beings affected by tragedies and misfortunes around the world - but they typically open their pocketbooks and write a check rather than be directly involved. It's quick and easy with no emotional attachment. But it is the emotional attachment - the direct connection between one human being and another - that makes volunteerism so special.

According to the latest edition of the Aging & Independence newsletter, there are a host of new volunteer opportunities available to start the year:

+ Seniors Against Investment Fraud (SAIF) Program - The California Department of Corporation needs trainers to help older adults avoid becoming victimized by financial scams.

+ Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum needs aircraft restoration and docent volunteers.

+ North County Community Services needs classroom aides for a Poway preschool project.

+ Mount Hope Cemetery in San Diego needs an office assistant with typing, filing and general computer skills.

+ Utility Consumer's Action Network (UCAN) needs volunteers to help consumers with utility bills, cellphone abuses, water and sewer charges, credit card abuses and other issues that affect senior citizens.

+ Kids and Seniors Together (KAST) Program at La Mesa Dale School needs volunteers for after-school activities with elementary-age children.

+ Senior Volunteer Patrol (SVP), a division of the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), needs more volunteers in communities countywide.

For information about these and other volunteer opportunities with public, non-profit and health agencies throughout the county, contact the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program at

(858) 505-6399. Volunteer to help someone else, and feel the difference.