Geezers Give Back

I am amazed how much geezer skiers I know are giving back to their communities. Although they have a passion for skiing, they also have a commitment to service and volunteering. Pat Ryan helps out at the local hospital and he has recruited Bob O'Shea to this as well. Bob also tells me he helps with transport of veterans to the Syracuse VA Center. Ed Wrench helps to honor veterans at their funerals. Ed the Good (don't remember the last name) visits a nursing home to assist the residents by reading to them and listening to their concerns. Roger Pellerin rebuilds church organs and supervises construction at his church. Frank Bonamie is a patron of the American Indian Program at Cornell with significant monetary and advisory input. Allen Bushnell also tells me he is a ardent supporter of veterans causes. I am proud to be associated with such a group of active contributors to the well being of their communities.

In giving through volunteering, I have discovered that you get back far more than one can possibly give. I am a member of the Cornell Association of Professors Emeriti. Our group participates in volunteer work on and off campus. Some of the activities are helping out in the grade schools, visiting people in nursing homes, and interviewing students for health services careers. One of the most satisfying things I have done is to help staff the welcome posts for new students arriving on campus in late August. It is a pleasure to put a welcoming face on Cornell for parents and students as they arrive. And the smiles and appreciation from these guests makes all this effort a pleasure.

Many times we lament how the world seems to have become less aware of the needs of others. However, I am encouraged that many of us that are retired still have the energy and enthusiasm to give something back. Keep up the good work guys!!