Volunteer In Retirement
When you retire, the world seems full of possibilities. You can spend more time with family, travel the world, and even volunteer in retirement. Volunteering can be a way to help you connect with your community and help discover your life’s purpose – which yes, you can still do at an older age. When you add your dog to the experience it can be even more fun! You can enjoy the benefits of community engagement, personal fulfillment, and more enriching experiences with your fluffy friend by your side.
Read to learn more about volunteering with your dog and becoming an Alliance of Therapy Dogs member.
Why Volunteer When You Retire
Volunteering in retirement has many benefits. It provides a way to stay physically and mentally active, combating the isolation that sometimes accompanies retirement. It also helps to engage in meaningful activities and foster social connections. By sharing their skills and experiences through the years, retirees can make a significant impact by giving back to the community and leaving a lasting legacy. Conversely, retirees can learn new skills, and continue their personal development. Volunteering can also be an opportunity to meet new people with similar interests or discover new passions. This can help add joy to your daily routine and a continued sense of contribution. Let’s explore more why dedicating your time to a charitable cause can enhance your retirement experience.
Personal Growth and Fulfillment
- Purpose and Meaning: Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and can help fight feelings of isolation.
- Skill Development: You can learn new skills, expand your knowledge, and apply your professional experience in a new setting.
- Increased Self-Esteem: Making a positive impact on others can improve your confidence and self-worth.
Improved Physical and Mental Health
- Social Connection: Volunteering encourages social interactions, decreasing feelings of loneliness and depression.
- Active Lifestyle: Some volunteer opportunities involve physical activity, which can help improve overall health.
- Stress Reduction: Helping others can reduce stress and anxiety.
Giving Back to Your Community
- Making a Difference: Your volunteer time can have a significant impact on the lives of others.
- Building Stronger Communities: Volunteering can create a more connected and supportive community.
- Inspiring Others: Your enthusiasm for volunteering can inspire others to get involved with their favorite causes.
Why Volunteer With Your Dog
Volunteering with your dog is a wonderful way to strengthen the bond with your canine companion. Not only do you get to spend more time with them, but you also get to engage in meaningful experiences by sharing smiles and joy with those who may be going through a difficult time. Dogs are terrific conversation starters and can help people feel at ease while bringing a smile to their faces.
Why Volunteer With Alliance of Therapy Dogs
Being an Alliance of Therapy Dogs Member means being a part of an international registry of certified therapy dog teams. Our organization offers certification, registration, testing, support, and liability insurance coverage. The insurance coverage safeguards you against claims from others for injury, illness, and property damage during therapy visits with your dog.
We are also a howl-arious group of volunteers that love our dogs and enjoy being able to make an impact. Read our Therapy Dogs on Military Bases and Free Therapy Dog Home Visits blog posts to learn first-hand why some of our ATD volunteers love volunteering with their furry friends.
Therapy Dog Certification
A well-mannered and well-behaved dog over the age of one can become a certified therapy dog. No formal training is required but some volunteers have chosen to also take their dogs to obedience classes. To help prepare your pup for certification you can practice walking on a loose leash, sitting quietly, and partake in activities that enhance their manners and socialization. You can also watch our therapy dog training and test video to know what to expect during the therapy dog certification test. Then, you and your dog will attend three supervised visits with a tester/observer. After submitting paperwork and three supervised visits, you will be considered a contender for our therapy dog teams!
If you’re contemplating joining us as a volunteer, the ATD Office can help answer any questions. It’s never too late to make a difference. Remember, the most rewarding volunteer experiences are those that align with your passions and values. Don’t hesitate to try different roles until you find your perfect fit! Have you thought of volunteering in retirement? Share your thoughts and experiences with us online @allianceoftherapydogs!
