United Way Dad and Grandpa Reflects on a Life of Service
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United Way Dad and Grandpa Reflects on a Life of Service

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Jim and his daughter Nicole

July 21, 2017

Written by Jim Angresano, Retire United member and father to Nicole Angresano, Vice President of Community Impact at United Way. Jim participated in Retiree Day of Service on June 20th, packing caregiver support kits. Below, he reflects on a life of volunteering and giving back to his community.

I spent my career teaching economics, focusing particularly on income and wealth distribution both in the USA and throughout the rest of the world. This experience, as well as traveling to poorer countries, emphasized how well off I am compared to over 99% of the world's citizens.

It is unfortunate that our country devotes such a small percentage of our resources to those in need as compared to other wealthy countries. However, we are lucky to have considerable freedom given to non-profit institutions like United Way and to engage in activities designed to help those less fortunate.

Volunteering is a great feeling. Every volunteer activity in which I have participated has been uplifting for me-- although I feel even more concerned for those the project is designed to impact.

Volunteering was important to me while I was employed (as a teacher) because I believed strongly in being a role model for my students. Now, as a grandparent, I have similar strong feelings, and hope that my volunteer efforts supplement the wonderful role models my grandson has for parents.

There are countless opportunities for retired people such as myself to get involved and give back. Doing so not only enables me to contribute to my community, but it reinforces to me how fortunate I am. I look forward to engaging in more volunteer efforts with United Way and Retire United.

Retired or planning to retire? Join us at the upcoming Retire United Connection: A Conversation on Preparing for Unexpected Costs. Learn more and register to attend.

Read more about how local retirees are staying active and involved through Retire United.

 

 

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