[Resource] Volunteering and Older Adults

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Many of today’s older adults are the founders of non-profit organizations and social movements that have played a fundamental role in shaping Canadian society and establishing essential community services. Organizations rely heavily on older adult volunteers to provide continuity and leadership.1 Close to 15 million Canadians are over the age of 45 and comprise 43% of the population2 . These shadow boomers (ages 45-54), baby boomers (ages 55-64), and senior adults (over the age of 65) contribute more hours to non-profit organizations in the community than any other age group. Seniors (65+) contributed 372 million hours of volunteering in 2010 alone. Yet, the world of volunteering has evolved significantly, over the past decade, influenced by changing demographics, globalization, advances in technology, shifts in public policy, and the myriad of social issues associated with economic trends.3 How will organizations continue to meaningfully engage senior citizens today and in the future? How can public policy and programs facilitate and strengthen opportunities for older adult volunteering?