I'm about to retire. I have a million and one things I want to do....long country walks, amateur photography, watercolour landscape painting, creative writing. But these are all things I do for myself. I'd also like to do some volunteering as it would bring me into contact with other people and I'd feel I was still making a useful contribution to society.
My problem is, what? I have been working in education for much of my life and I'm already governor at the local primary school, so I'd really like a break from children/teenagers after all these years. Therefore I'd prefer not to be involved in more schools, holiday clubs or playgroups if possible.
There are also volunteers in hospitals but I'm a bit squeamish around healthcare and most hospitals are based in cities....the nearest ones are miles away from here, although I do have my own transport.
I live rurally and love the countryside best, but at my age I just don't have the strength to do things that demand masses of physical energy eg. laying stone paths on moorland, clearing footpaths, dredging old canals or whatever. Although I do like being outdoors.
I prefer being part of an organisation and have considered National Trust volunteering (I love old houses and their grounds) but guides seem to spend a lot of time indoors, standing around doing nothing until some visitor happens to get too close to the artwork!! Has anyone done this sort of volunteering? Is it tedious or quite interesting?
Has anyone any other suggestions, or am I being too picky? Any tips or advice from experienced volunteers would be gratefully received!