Community Service Ideas for Seniors

Times are tough. With Americans experiencing record high unemployment rates and a pandemic sweeping across the world, we could all use a bit more happiness and charity in our lives. People around the country are looking to community service as a way to give back to their towns and neighborhoods. But if you’re a senior, you might be in a bind: How do you give back to your community without exposing yourself to the virus? 

Below, we’ve outlined several senior- and pandemic-friendly forms of community service. Organize some friends to tackle a project, or consider joining a larger organization working toward a shared goal. Community service is a great way to give back to the folks who need it most, but you’ll also feel good about yourself and your actions.

The population of unhoused people in America has been growing steadily for years, but the recent pandemic has forced even more people out of their homes. Organizing a clothing drive is an easy way to help this vulnerable population, as well as other low-income or otherwise struggling folks. Put out collection bins in popular areas, like outside of the grocery store or at a public park. Once you’ve collected enough clothing, contact your local shelters and community resources to provide the donation. Remember that COVID-19 can exist on surfaces for up to a few days, so properly quarantine your donations for at least 72 hours before giving them away. 

This is an easy way to give back to staff if you live in a residential or nursing home facility. Spend a few hours each week clipping coupons from local books or searching for them online. Once you have several saved up, present them to the nursing or caregiving staff. It might not be much, but saving a few dollars on groceries means a person can put those dollars toward something else. 

If you’re a creative or artistic person, you likely have a craft you like to practice in your spare time – knitting, crocheting, sewing, painting, or anything in between. If you’re looking for an easy way to give back, consider selling your artwork, either on an online platform, like Etsy, or at a local flea market. During the pandemic, we recommend leaning toward online options over in-person markets. Then, donate the proceeds to a local charity. 

Marathons, 10K races, and 5K walks have been postponed for at least a year, which means many are turning to virtual events to raise money. If you find a 5K walk for a cause you care about, consider signing up and raising money. These virtual “races” are extremely easy: You sign up, they mail you your race shirt, and you head out for a walk on the designated day. Some races also allow participants to raise additional money for charity. If you’re feeling energetic, this might be a good way to go – just don’t forget your medical alert system! 

While most of us are drawn to helping others in this strange, scary time, seniors need to prioritize their health above all else. If you’re not feeling great or are experiencing fatigue, don’t push beyond your limits. Even if you’re feeling okay, remember to bring your medical alert system when you’re out and about. Accidents are impossible to predict, and participating in charity or service events will put you in touch with the outside world. With a medical alert system nearby, you’ll be more ready to face whatever’s out there.