Helpful Ideas
Now that you have retired, have you thought about what you can do in your free time? Volunteer at your local library, help out at a local school, help animals in need?
Here are some ideas to get you started, and many more possibilties await you in your local area. Have ideas to share? Please send them to one of the emails listed in the contact us section, or connect with us through Facebook.
Please note, MCREA does not sponsor or advocate for any of these groups, they are only suggestions.
Local/Maryland/Montgomery County Opportunities
Montgomery College Lifelong Learning Institute
Lifelong Learning Institute is committed to creating and fostering a variety of intellectually stimulating educational opportunities for Montgomery County residents age 50 and over.
Oasis Lifelong Learning
https://washington-metro.oasisnet.org/
Join us for exciting classes and volunteer opportunities. From history to yoga to music and more, it’s your time for a new adventure with Washington Metro Oasis.
Senior Centers in Montgomery County
www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec/facilities/seniorcenters/
Our seven Senior Centers are full-service facilities providing a wide range of programs, services, and activities that are open five to six days a week. They provide educational seminars, entertainment, fitness & dance classes, health & wellness programs, travel & volunteer opportunities, individual & team sports, a weekday lunch program, a wide variety of drop-in programs, lectures, and seminars, and much more.
Employment and Volunteer Resources in Montgomery County
www.montgomerycountymd.gov/senior/employment.html
Whether you want to find employment, a great volunteer role or enrichment opportunities, Montgomery County has lots of options and resources.
National and International Opportunities
Volunteer Match
Connecting volunteers with nonprofits. They offer volunteer opportunities in everything from arts and culture, to disaster relief, education, faith-based, environmental causes, and many more. Enter your city and state and see the volunteer opportunities in your area.
Children’s Hospital
Be a part of a truly rewarding experience by helping families with children in need. Volunteers are always needed at their facilities around the country.
American Community Gardening Association
If you like to get your hands dirty, this might be for you! Volunteer with a local community garden and combine your love for all things green with a good cause.
Public Service
Many federal agencies offer ways you can volunteer. Choose from the Peace Corps, Veterans Affairs, Federal election volunteers, and more.
Go Overseas International and USA Community
International: www.gooverseas.com/volunteer-abroad
USA: www.gooverseas.com/volunteer-abroad/united-states-america
Whether you’re from outside the U.S. and want to experience this vast, diverse nation as a volunteer, or you’re an American looking to travel outside your hometown, this guide will help you figure out what sort of volunteer projects you can do based on region.
American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
www.aspca.org/take-action/volunteer
Are you interested in making a difference for animals in need? The ASPCA offers volunteer opportunities in a variety of fields, including pet adoptions, animal rescue and rehabilitation and government relations.
Eldercare Locator
https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx
The Eldercare Locator is a nationwide service that connects older Americans and their caregivers with trustworthy local support resources. Since 1991, the Eldercare Locator has been linking those who need assistance with state and local agencies on aging, as well as community-based organizations that serve older adults and their caregivers.
Senior Planet
https://seniorplanet.org/locations/montgomery-county/
Senior Planet helps seniors learn new skills, save money, get in shape, and make new friends. Our courses, programs, and activities are changing the lives of older adults far beyond technology. We have locations all over the U.S., and offer online courses you can join no matter where you are located.