A 50+ Volunteer Sees the Economic Crisis from the Frontlines

Bill Moyers Explores the Third Chapter Of Life with Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot

Do yourself a favor. Set aside 35 minutes tonight to sit down with a cup of tea and watch this video. In it Bill Moyers talks with the renowned sociologist Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot about her new book, "The Third Chapter: Passion, Risk and Adventure in the 25 Years After 50." Over a period of two years Lightfoot traveled around America interviewing men and women in their 50's, 60's and 70's. The result is a deeply insightful book that explores what the author calls the "penultimate period" and "most transformative time of our lives" when we are confronted with the choice of stagnation or new becoming. Whether you decide to read the book or not don't miss this video. Listen in on the conversation between these two accomplished and articulate people 50+ as they discuss the continuing adventure of life.

You will find more video (from the ridiculous to the sublime!) in our new video section (click on "videos" in the left-hand toolbar of the website.)

Does the Current Emphasis on High-Skilled Volunteering Have a Downside?

Everyone is talking about "pro bono" or "skill-based" volunteering - including us here at Coming of Age: Delaware! This is volunteering where someone provides a professional or highly technical skill to a non-profit at no charge. It's all the rage now because with the downturn in the economy many non-profits are laying off staff or unable to afford the expertise they need to remain competitive in a changing world. The phrase "skill-based volunteering" actually comes from the world of corporate volunteering; a process where a company allows one of its highly-skilled employees to provide professional or technical assistance to a nonprofit. But with the retirement of the highly educated boomer generation, skill-based volunteering is gaining popularity in community-based volunteering as well.

In our eagerness to embrace skill-based volunteerism have we really thought about what we are saying? For example, are we implying that traditional volunteers are unskilled? Or that their efforts aren't as valuable as the contributions of professionals?

Leave it to Susan Ellis, an international volunteering expert, to ask the questions others would rather avoid! Read Susan's provocative July "hot topic" here.

Want to share some thoughts about this subject? Why not post your comments in the "pro-bono consulting" forum of our message board.

It's Been 10 Years Since My Last Job Search...What Do I Do?

RSVP Brings a Matter of Balance to Delaware

Chances are you know someone who has fallen or who is afraid of falling. A Matter of Balance is a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity.  RSVP is looking for volunteers to help provide this program.  

A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls is conducted in 8 two-hour sessions and uses group discussion, problem–solving strategies, videos and gentle physical exercise. Older adults learn positive coping methods to reduce fear of falling and remain active and independent. 

A Matter of Balance coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls by believing that they can increase their strength, find ways to reduce falls, and protect themselves if they do fall. In addition, participants report that they have increased the amount they exercise on a regular basis.   

A Matter of Balance coaches need good communication and interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, dependability and a willingness to lead small groups of older adults. Coaches also need to be able to lead low to moderate level exercise. 

There will be an information session to learn more about becoming A Matter of Balance coach on Wednesday, September 9 at 1 PM  in the Charles Debnam Building, 1901 N DuPont Hwy., New Castle.    If you would like to attend or want more information, please contact Debby Vandiver, A Matter of Balance Coordinator at  302-255-9878. In Sussex County, contact MaryAnn Hook at 302-856-5815 for information about upcoming trainings.

Dental Hygienist

The Ministry of Caring Inc. (a non-profit dedicated to serving the ongoing needs of the poor and homeless) is seeking a part-time Dental Hygienist for their Pierre Toussaint Dental Office located in Wilmington, Delaware. Applicants must have a stable work history and a desire to serve the poor. For more information contact Marie Keefer or Rhonda Miller at 302-428-3652.

Development (Fund Raising) Associate

Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County in Wilmington has a full-time opening for a Development Associate. This person will work with the Executive Directory and volunteer committees to increase private and public funding through grant writing, individual donor management and cultivation, special event fund raising and sales of speciality items. For more information contact Kevin Smith at 302-652-0365, x101.