Show Gratitude by Volunteering—Including for This Council

As the end of 2024 approaches, there are often tasks I want to accomplish so I can begin the new year with a fresh start. Maybe it’s taking things I don’t use anymore to the thrift store, organizing the closets, or getting my papers together to file my income taxes. 

I also try to remember all the things that have occurred during the year for which I feel gratitude. It can be simple kindnesses, like a stranger who opened the door for me when I was loaded down with groceries. Or they may be more impactful, like the privilege I have of being a member of the Seattle/King County Advisory Council on Aging and Disabilities Services, which publishes AgeWise King County and does much more to advocate for older adults and people with disabilities.

In an ever-changing world, there is always something or someone to feel grateful for in our lives.

Some show their gratitude by giving back and often that is done by volunteering. There are many nonprofit organizations that need short-term or ongoing volunteers for a variety of tasks, everything from making phone calls to helping people schedule rides to the doctor, to sorting and distributing food at a food bank, to tutoring children after school. 

Boards and commissions that give people a voice in our communities’ essential public services are often seeking new members. For example, the aforementioned Advisory Council on Aging and Disabilities Services upon which I serve has openings. (Contact Michael Adusah at michael.adusah@seattle.gov for more information.)

Not sure where to get started volunteering? Here are a few places you could start:

• United Way Volunteering Opportunities — Choose from hundreds of local causes to find ones that appeal to you.
• Sound Generation Volunteer Transportation — This great organization is always looking for volunteer drivers to transport older adults with limited transportation options to health-related appointments.
• Solid Ground Retired and Senior Volunteer Program — Become a RSVP member to do everything from mentoring/tutoring students to helping out at a local food bank.
• ElderFriends — ElderFriends Volunteer Companionship Program connects an elder with a volunteer for regular visits and an occasional outing.

Whatever you are grateful for as 2024 ends, and whatever you plan to do in 2025 to give back, remember that every contribution counts — both big and small — as we work in community to make the new year happier and healthier for all.

Contributor Alex O’Reilly chairs the Seattle-King County Advisory Council on Aging & Disability Services. She welcomes input from readers via e-mail (advisorychair@agewisekingcounty.org).

Mark Your Calendars

Following are upcoming events of interest to ADS Advisory Council members:

• ADS Advisory Council: Friday, December 13 (noon–2 p.m.); Online and in-person at King Street Station, 303 S. Jackson St.. To receive the meeting link, e-mail aginginfo@seattle.gov in advance.
• Mayor’s Council on African American Elders: Friday, December 20 (2–3:30 p.m.) at Grace United Methodist Church (722 30th Ave. S., Seattle, 98144). Parking is available. Agendas will be sent via e-mail. Meetings are hybrid. Contact mekuria@seattle.gov for the Zoom link or more information.
• Happy Holidays: Christmas Day (Wednesday, December 25) and New Year’s Day (Wednesday, January 1) are national holidays. Aging and Disability Services offices will be closed on these days.