How to Give Back Through Charity, Volunteer Work
At age 80, Dick Doyle spends Saturdays with his wife, Patti, at the bustling Falls Church farmers market, setting up displays filled with his homemade wooden furniture, like the live-edge cherrywood coffee table he recently built with a second shelf for extra storage.
“We just show up bright and early,” he says. “Everybody stops and looks at the stuff, and it’s just a grand day for us.”
Many of his customers will return after a purchase and tell him the compliments they received from guests. But what makes these pieces special isn’t just Doyle’s craftmanship – it’s the story behind them.
Doyle, a retired Fairfax County teacher, counselor and principal, creates tables and benches from storm-fallen trees and donates every dollar of the proceeds to Homestretch, a local charity dedicated to supporting families in need.
“We really have contributed a handsome amount,” Doyle says, estimating his work has raised between $75,000 and $80,000. “The only impact we want to have is to be actively involved as we age, supporting people who have not had the good fortune we have.”
Doyle’s woodworking project began when he moved to Reedville, a small fishing village east of Fredericksburg, and befriended Gordon Burgess, a fellow retiree. At age 88, Burgess, who has a knack for repurposing and repairing unwanted items, collects storm-fallen trees for Doyle to repurpose into attractive, functional pieces.
What started as a personal hobby has become a way for Doyle to give back while staying engaged in his community. “It’s fun and it makes you feel useful,” he says.
Retirees like Doyle and Burgess are not alone in their desire to give back. On an average day, more than 22% of people age 55 years or older volunteered through activities like fundraising, preparing food, collecting clothing and other goods, visiting with others and more, according to 2022 data released this year from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
If you’re wondering how to get involved, follow your interests. Here are some ideas to help you get started:
- Volunteer at local charities. Find nearby food banks, shelters or community centers that need help. Many organizations post volunteer opportunities on their websites or local bulletin boards.
- Use your skills. If you have a talent for woodworking like Doyle or expertise in another area, consider offering your services to a cause you care about. Whether it’s teaching, organizing or something creative, your know-how can make a difference to others.
- Join a community group. Look for neighborhood associations, gardening clubs or community cleanup projects in your area.
- Support local donations. Consider contributing food, clothing or toys to local groups accepting donations, such as schools, churches and others.
For Doyle, the opportunity to give back has brought him closer to his community.
“Follow that thought until it takes you to a place that makes you feel good,” Doyle says. “It’s out there for anyone.”
