Joys and Value of Volunteerism
With high school graduation around the corner for my youngest child, what happens on the “day after” for Dad? No more school drop-offs before work. I no longer see any of my kids daily as they go off to seminary, graduate school, or continue their lives away from what I will always call their home. And, while nothing is for sure, no one is planning to return home for an extended stay so I, like so many before me, will experience the “empty nest” syndrome. The question is, “Have I prepared properly? What will I do with this new “extra/free time?”
This column, “Community Connections,” reminds us that we are not meant to live in isolation. While we all need some “me” time, most of our time should be spent in the company of others. Research consistently shows that we lead longer and healthier lives when we are actively engaged in our communities.
Most people are not ready to retire when their last child graduates, so continuing to work softens the “blow” of the empty nest. Work, unless remote, allows one to socialize and keep active. It also gets one out of the house daily.
President Kennedy said, “Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country.” If we change the word “country” to “community,” and become active in the synagogue, volunteer for committees, attend/give classes, and attend the daily minyan, we’d expand our networks and help others. Imagine the smile on the face of the Shul President when one volunteers, as opposed to being “voluntold.” As a matter of fact, every Shabbat, we say a special “Mi Shebarach” the rabbis instituted for those who help the congregation. We ask Hashem to:
“Bless those who give lamps for illumination (electric bill), wine for Kiddush and Havdalah, bread for guests and charity for the poor, and those who are involved faithfully in the needs of the community. May Hashem pay their reward and remove from them every affliction, heal their entire body, forgive their every iniquity, and send blessing and success to all their handiwork.”
Imagine that we are asking Hashem to bless those involved faithfully in communal needs. Volunteerism doesn’t cost money; it just requires time and commitment. It is a great way to help oneself and the community. It allows one to utilize the “freed up” time and perform a mitzvah.
At Jewish Family Services and Federation, we have a wide range of opportunities that require volunteers. Whether it’s in the kitchen, our Unity Garden (tending to our vegetables, weeding, harvesting crops, etc.), presenting classes, driving our seniors to appointments, or visiting homebound/nursing facilities (available upon a short meeting on what is required by HIPAA laws), your contribution would be highly valued. Our diverse Federation committees are always open to new members, and it’s a wonderful way to start building connections within our community.
Whether you’re on the brink of the “empty nest” phase or far from it, volunteering in our Jewish community is a rewarding and easy way to connect with people, build your network, and make a difference. It’s a win-win situation, benefitting both the community and you. So, for the sake of your spiritual well-being, your communal spirit, or both, take the step and join us. Email info@thejewishfed.org to get involved. We look forward to your participation.
Have a good Summer!
Rabbi Fred Nebel,
Jewish Family Services Director,
Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley