More Baby Boomers Volunteering
<http://www.jointogether.org/sa/default.jtml?O=267020>
As Baby Boomers reach middle age, many are spending more time volunteering,
the Associated Press reported March 30.
The largest generation in American history, Baby Boomers are changing their
focus from success to
making a difference, experts say. For millions of boomers, born between
1946 and 1964, that means a commitment to volunteering.
"When you get involved, you get something back," said Paul Rogat Loeb,
author of "Soul of a Citizen:
Living with Conviction in a Cynical Time." "A lot of people tell me they
get a sense of dignity from doing something^A'I can get up and look myself
in the mirror.'"
Bob Buford, a cable TV magnate turned venture philanthropist, added,
"There's a need to do something that matters, not something that is
strictly for the money."
The Peace Corps is one agency seeing an increase in volunteerism among Baby
Boomers. This year, 286 boomers serve as volunteers, compared to 184 in 2000.
"A lot of couples in their 50s and divorced people are going overseas with
the Peace Corps," said spokeswoman Susan Buchanan. "It's the right time in
their livesthey've fulfilled their obligations to their families and their
careers and they want to do something more idealistic."
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