VOLUNTEERING
In 1992, I qualified for a retirement from Deere & Company according to their formula for age and length of service. I wasn’t ready for retirement but it has turned out my decision to take advantage of the company’s offer was the best thing that happened to me.
I discovered RSVP - Retired and Senior Volunteer Program - and was directed to volunteering.
My first venture was with the VA office in Bettendorf. I met Mary, Shirley, Alice and Harold and other who trained me. Every Monday morning I was able to use my office skills, especially filing. I was kept busy for a couple of years.
My next venture was tutoring first and second grade slow readers at Grant Wood School. I would do this once a week and it was a learning experience for me. I did this for about two years.
Another volunteer opportunity was ushering at the Adler Theatre. This was a chance to meet more people and assist in the seating of attendees to the QC Symphony performances as well as other theatrical productions that used the Adler facilities.
From there I learned of the QC Convention Bureau and volunteered on several of their projects, especially their discovery of the Quad City series.
When the Festival of Trees advertised for volunteers I joined them as a Ticket Seller. During November I am busy during this event.
During the summer I volunteer for the Senior Olympics and am on the registration table. It is so neat to meet the participants and be of assistance to them.
I am not an artist but enjoy art and was a docent at the Davenport Art Museum for about six years. I currently do some volunteering at the Figge Art Museum.
For about five years I volunteered at the Bix Festival during August. Most of my time was spent on the hospitality functions and providing information to those attending the various venues.
Volunteering has enriched my retirement years and proved to me there is life after retirement.
I believe in volunteering.
Geraldine Bakeris
