Give Back by Volunteering in Retirement: A Life Well Lived Includes Lifting Others
One of the greatest gifts we can give—at any age—is ourselves.
Service has been woven into my life since childhood. Growing up, I eagerly participated in fundraising projects and neighborhood charity events, and having a brother with an intellectual disability taught me compassion, empathy, and the joy of helping others from an early age. Those experiences shaped the person I am today and continue to inspire the work I do.
I believe volunteering isn't something we outgrow. In fact, after age 55, it becomes even more meaningful. Retirement creates space to share our wisdom, talents, life experiences, and generous hearts in ways that enrich both our own lives and the lives of others. When we give back, we often discover purpose, passion, and connection in return.
That belief is why I founded Empower Your Power, a resident lifestyle club for women in The Villages, Florida. It is my personal gift to this incredible community—a place where women encourage one another, build confidence, celebrate life's victories, and navigate challenges together. We also give back to local women and girls organizations with various fundraising projects.
I also teach classes through The Villages Enrichment Academy because I believe everyone deserves access to practical tools, meaningful conversations, and encouragement to create a fulfilling retirement. To be fully transparent, instructors due receive modest compensation for their time. We teach classes to fill the three buckets needed for a successful retirement: purpose, passion, and connection.
To honor the privacy and comfort of those who live in The Villages, I do not offer private retirement lifestyle coaching to local residents. Instead, I invite them to experience my Enrichment Academy classes and resident lifestyle club for women - Empower Your Power, where they can learn, grow, connect, and thrive in a supportive community setting.
My mission has always been simple: to empower people to overcome their tough stuff, discover what's possible, and create their very best chapter. Whether through volunteering, teaching, speaking, or coaching, I hope to leave every person a little more confident, connected, and inspired than when we first met.
In 2005, my mother and I chose Ralph Waldo Emerson's success quote in celebration of my late intellectually disabled brother, Jeff. In my heart and all Jeff touched, my brother's spirit still shines bright.
