12/30/2024
Grateful to IVC Board Member Nancy Woodley for sharing her thoughts on a recent piece in the Washington Post about the impact of service done by older adults:
Letters to the Editor:
I was inspired by Daniel Pink’s proposal for a national service program for older adults. As someone who has served with the Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) since 2014 and sits on its national board, I can attest to the transformative impact of organizations such as the IVC — not just on the lives of older adults, but also on the nonprofit partners we serve. The IVC empowers retirees to use their wisdom, skills and passion for service to address some of our nation’s most pressing social challenges. Every year, hundreds of IVC corps members work with nonprofits, offering professional expertise and compassionate care to strengthen their capacity. This work doesn’t just fill gaps, it builds bridges — between generations, communities and individuals seeking purpose.
When I joined the IVC, I was searching for a way to reconnect with my faith and community. Through the IVC, I found not only a renewed sense of purpose but also a supportive community that deepened my spirituality. For me and countless others, the IVC has been a reminder that our “third act” in life can be one of great adventure and service. The IVC is a model for what a “Silver Service Corps” could look like. By investing in programs like the IVC, we can honor the dignity of aging while ensuring that nonprofits, especially those serving the most vulnerable, have the support they need to thrive. Let’s reimagine aging not as a time of retreat but as an opportunity for engagement and impact. The IVC’s tagline says it best: Experience making a difference.
Nancy Woodley, Arlington
Readers respond to Daniel Pink and share their own experiences with volunteering.
