While opportunities to volunteer through the University Retirees Volunteer Center (URVC) are suspended because of the coronavirus, we would like to offer a testimonial on the benefits of volunteering, to both recipients and volunteers. — Randi Lundell, volunteer officer manager, URVC
When I retired in 2015, I decided to volunteer at the nearby care center where my parents spent their final days. I was so impressed with the vitality of the center and wanted to contribute to it. Shortly after starting and doing various tasks, I noticed there were many programs in art and music, but few in science.
Being the geek that I am, I asked if I could introduce some science programs to help the residents with life-long learning — and having fun with science. They said, Yes!
I knew I could count on the College of Biological Sciences Instructional Labs to help me with equipment and specimens because, as the coordinator of those labs for 25 years, I had encouraged CBS to contribute to science programs for K-12 students and teachers.
So, what do we do in these programs at the care center? Everything! The residents are amazing. We have isolated DNA from strawberries; looked at our cells; made models of the solar system; studied seashells, trees, the brain, genetics, the heart, the ear, the brain, sex determination in animals, tectonic plates, and more.
Having spent my 40-year career entertaining undergraduates with the wonders of science, I now have a second career — entertaining seniors! But no exams.