I retired from a 20 year position in 2003 to take care of my elderly mother and disabled brother. They have since passed on. The position was what I thought was the best job any one could have had. I missed the work and decided to go to college as I did not have that opportunity while young. Enrolling in Worcester State College in 2004, I have taken one course each year in Gerontology and Urban Studies.

One course required community service. I chose to do food stamp outreach. Eventually, I was hired through a joint grant with the college and an area food pantry to help people apply for food stamps. Through this position, I was introduce to an Elder Outreach program and am currentlly working for this program while maintaining food stamp outreach efforts.

 I never dreamed that I would find something so rewarding, interesting and different to do in my later years. And I get paid for it as well!

I have met many interesting and wonderful people. Some that have needed me to intervene for them and some that have helped me to grow intelectually and spiritually. I have many new friends and social contacts and have participated in activities that I never thought that I would have had the courage or knowledge to take part of.

I am very grateful to my professor at Worcester State for the support and confidence that has allowed me to be a part of this great work.

There is no time to think of aches and pains and the losses one incurs during the aging process. They are minor nuisances in my daily life as I look forward to the new experiences that lies ahead.