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Value of Volunteering
“Volunteers are the heart of the movement. Giving time and attention to others strengthens the bonds that make a community thrive,” says Karin Sadtler of Age-Friendly Communities of the Lower Kennebec (AFCLK).
“Volunteer-driven age-friendly programs address critical needs while strengthening communities through empathy and engagement. I believe volunteers play a key role in making these connections possible.” Karin joined AFCLK as a volunteer in 2018, acting as co-chair for two years in 2022 and 2023. Since then, Karin has spent her time focusing on the volunteer transportation program, a key need in the area. We connected with Karin to hear her perspective on the value of volunteering - both to her and to age friendly.
Donating time for the betterment of your community is an amazing gift but, sometimes finding volunteers to help run programs can be a challenge. Karin speaks about the importance of the program that drives the involvement of volunteers. Noting that many people in her community have recognized the importance of transportation and the challenges older adults may face accessing it.
This has led to many people wanting to volunteer their time and services to the transportation program by driving community members in need. Karin talks about how vital volunteers are to Age Friendly Communities of the Lower Kennebec.
Communities differ across the state; recognizing what needs in a community are not met can lead to finding volunteers that are involved and engaged in the work that communities are doing. Volunteers are dedicating their time to better their community, Karin shares her thoughts about how important having involved volunteers is and how this deepens connection in the community.
Recognizing the importance of volunteering to age friendly work, Karin has worked hard over the years to foster a community of volunteers that works hard to make a difference in their communities day in and day out.
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