written and edited by Laura Rody
After 50 years in the workforce I couldn’t just sit back and revel in my retirement; I needed to be involved, to be active, and to be useful. I may be a senior citizen but I still have a lot left to give to my community.
For over 10 years I’ve been with the Red Cross’s West San Fernando Valley District Office as a receptionist/front desk worker. Each week I work for at least 15 hours if not more. I am a firm believer in being consistent and reliable in my work. I’m there when I say I’ll be there and I do the work I’ll say I’ll do.
In the course of my day at the Health Education and Safety department, I answer the phones and direct calls to the appropriate offices, assist customers with signing up for classes, and type up the certificates for those who pass the classes offered to the public by the Red Cross, such as CPR and First Aid, among other things. In my position it’s essential to have excellent customer service skills; the people seeking assistance and information deserve to be helped promptly and accurately.
I chose to join the Red Cross primarily because of the convenience; there was a district office right by my own neighborhood. I prefer to spend my time helping others, not in my car commuting to the office.
My best memories of working with the Red Cross stem from the time when we offered flu shots to high-risk groups and blood pressure screenings for the elderly. During those events it was almost a party atmosphere. The high level of activity kept everyone energized and motivated. Everyone would work together to help as many in need as possible. The people we served were happy to be there and they really needed those services.
Volunteering with the Red Cross keeps me active and my mind sharp. It’s a win-win situation: I’m glad to use my talents to help others and by doing so I stave off the boredom associated with retirement. I enjoy my time here and I will continue to volunteer as long as I can be of use.
photo: Terry Garnett and Timothy Archuleta at the annual Candlelight Volunteer Recognition Event. Terry received the General Services Award
