Older Adults

Canada was home to the largest baby boom of any western country. Considered to be born between 1946 and 1964, the baby boomer generation can be characterized as having multiple mosaics, between ethnicity, family, religion and lifestyle preferences. This range and variation in the experiences of baby boomers affect their ability and/or motivation to volunteer.

Volunteer Canada has developed a variety of tools and resources that explore the opportunities and barriers to effectively engaging boomers and older adults. We are in a very fortunate position, as there now exists a large and highly talented group able to contribute to their communities and nurture the spirit of civic engagement in Canada.

Resources

• Transitions, Milestones, and Legacies: Retirement Planning Module on Volunteering This tool shows the benefits of volunteering as part of a full retirement plan. Retirees can find opportunities that suit their motivations and life circumstances.

• Building Blocks for Boomer Volunteer Engagement This tool lists the opportunities and barriers to boomer engagement. It gives organization tips for recruiting and retaining baby boomer volunteers.

• Building the Bridge to Baby Boomer Volunteers This fact sheet outlines the features of baby boomer volunteers. Organizations can use it to better engage older volunteers.

• Volunteer Connections: New Strategies for Involving Older Adults How can organizations recruit and retain older adults? Read this resource to find out.

• Volunteering: A Booming Trend This resource is for baby boomers interested in volunteering. It shows the importance of volunteering and lets boomers know how they can get involved.

• Volunteering and Older Adults: Final Report This paper provides a comprehensive review of research on the nature and scope of baby boomer and senior citizen volunteering.