Chuck, a retired physician, tutors school age immigrants in English. Pam watches her young grandchildren while her daughter works. Jack, a retired attorney, spearheads an effort to register voters and get out the vote. At the local library Bob, a retired pharmacist, counsels individuals on the interactions of the multiple drugs they are taking. Joel, a retired attorney, volunteers for legal aid and tutors young students are growing up in challenging environments.
I am inspired by these people. As I thought about my own retirement, I knew that I wanted to do something important. Creating a career in retirement coaching was one activity I chose, but I aspired to do more. I wanted to use my skills and strengths in whatever I chose to do to help others,
I became excited about the possibilities when I heard the story of Summit Academy, a vocational school in Minneapolis servicing those most in need. They have a GED program for high-school non-completers to get a diploma. And they teach the skills needed for low (or no) income people to get entry-level jobs in construction, health care, and IT areas, three areas in high demand. They have arranged for many employers around town to provide internships and jobs for their graduates.
When I heard this story, I began to wonder what their lives will be like when they finished the program. Some of the graduates may not have much experience handling money, and they might not make good decisions about it.
I realized that I had a lot of skills and experience to offer. I’m very experienced with money – both personally and professionally. And I love to teach – particularly if my students get inspired and do things differently and better. Here was a possibility almost perfectly made for me, where I could have a big impact on the lives of others.
I taught my first classes, on Zoom, to three cohorts of IT students at Summit Academy last week. I don’t know where this will lead. But I’m excited and hopeful. My retirement is enriched by this opportunity.
How can you get involved to have an impact on the lives of others?