When most of us think about volunteering, we usually ascribe the motivation to something along the lines of "I want to help others" or "I want to give of myself".  We don't typically think of being a volunteer as a self-serving act, but for most volunteers it truly is self-serving - in a very positive way.
 
Allow me to explain this apparent dichotomy using as an example one of the members of North Shore Elder Services' Board of Directors.  Jerry Stepner has been a Board member for four years and currently serves as Treasurer.  Additionally, he has volunteered with the NSES Money Management Program since its inception in 1991 as well as being active with the AARP Tax Aide Program, the North Shore Pharmacy Association, the Earned Income Tax Credit Coalition of Boston, the North Shore-Cape Ann Emergency Responders Coalition, the Massachusetts Service Alliance, and many more organizations.
 
Jerry has been recognized for his volunteerism numerous local, state, and national awards.  However, public recognition or even notes of appreciation are not what motivates Jerry with his volunteerism.  It is simply the sense of purpose that it brings to his life each day.
 
Jerry is a point in his life where the concept of "retirement" could justifiably mean "taking it easy", but not so for him.   Jerry gets up each day with an agenda - a set of tasks to be accomplished and people to meet.  This activity provides him with a sense contribution and accomplishment.  It makes him feel good while doing good for others.
 
Jerry Stepner is far from being unique.  There are many folks who volunteer for our agency and other community, state, and national organizations and who make a difference.  They do good by helping others and as a result feel good about themselves!  So can you!  Make a resolution this year to be good to yourself - be self-serving by serving others.

Editor's note:  To check into volunteer opportunities at North Shore Elder Services and other organizations, please contact Amy Bens, NSES Volunteer Recruiter at 978-624-2288 or by email. We have many different volunteer opportunities and committments.

Was it Professor Plum in the Ballroom with the candlestick? North Shore Elder Services invites you to help us solve the case of Whodunit?An Evening of Mystery, Music and Mirth.

Join us for our 3rd Annual Spring Fund-raising Event at the Hawthorne Hotel Thursday, April 30th from 6:00-10:00 p.m. The evening will include plenty of fabulous food and drink as well as a silent auction, musical entertainment and a few parlor games.  Tickets and Sponsorship packages will be available as of January 15th. Drop by our open house to sign up with early bird registration benefits.