At the heart of every nonprofit, association, and community-driven initiative are volunteers—dedicated individuals whose time and effort make the impossible possible. Without them, organizations like Aging Forward would struggle to fulfill their missions. However, volunteering does not just mean giving back; it is about finding purpose, fostering connections, and creating a fulfilling life, particularly for older adults seeking meaning after retirement.

“Volunteers are the backbone of everything we do,” says Sarah Cheney, Executive Director of Aging Forward, a national alliance of affiliate organizations supporting aging adults. “We simply wouldn’t be here without them. But what’s remarkable is that volunteering isn’t just beneficial for the people being helped—it profoundly impacts the volunteers themselves.”

Every year, Aging Forward celebrates extraordinary volunteers through its National Gallery of Volunteer Excellence, an honor that recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact in their communities. Affiliates across the country nominate volunteers who exemplify dedication, skill, and compassion. This year, 15 new honorees will be announced in April as part of National Volunteer Appreciation Month. The recognition is deeply meaningful, often leading to virtual watch parties where families and friends celebrate their loved ones’ contributions.

Among the honorees is John Woodmansee, a 92-year-old volunteer and 2024 honoree with the Shepherd’s Center of Greater Winston-Salem. After retiring from a 30-year career in home inspection, John dedicated himself to helping older adults with home repairs. Over the years, he has responded to nearly 2,000 repair requests, fixing everything from leaky faucets to malfunctioning toilets—all while mentoring a team of younger volunteers.

His motivation? A deep-seated belief that aging should be a time of growth, purpose, and contribution. “I work with people, not just for them,” John says. “Everyone deserves dignity, no matter their age or circumstances.”

Another 2024 honoree, Becky Entenmann, has a different story to tell. After beginning her journey as a volunteer driver in 2017—a connection sparked by her husband, a fellow volunteer and board member—Becky quickly expanded her role to encompass a variety of special projects. Her skills in research, communication, and leadership were instrumental during Shepherd’s Center of Webster-Kirkwood’s 25th anniversary, where she chaired the decorating committee and helped compile essential community resources. In 2021, she spearheaded the creation of a resource booklet that empowers older adults to navigate the digital world. “Volunteering has shown me that even small efforts can create changes in my life and the lives of others in ways I never expected,” says Becky. “I often feel I receive far more than I give.”

This year’s nominee, George Gallimore, exemplifies dedication in multiple ways. A retired U.S. Air Force officer, George has spent the last 16 years volunteering with Shepherd’s Center of Fairfax-Burke, seamlessly switching between roles as an IT specialist, data analyst, driver, and mentor. He even created the STEP program, an automated system that has improved transportation coordination for older adults. But beyond his technical contributions, George is best known for his personal connections. Families of those he’s helped have mentioned him in obituaries, and former care recipients have made donations in his honor.

Then there’s Missy Woolverton, whose work with Faith in Action of the Greater Kanawha Valley has helped combat loneliness. As part of the Reassurance Calls program, Missy makes weekly phone calls to isolated seniors, offering companionship and emotional support. “My calls with Missy are a highlight of my week,” one recipient shares. “Her wonderful sense of humor and caring spirit are such a blessing.”

Beyond its societal impact, volunteering is a proven catalyst for personal well-being. Studies show that older adults who volunteer experience improved mental and physical health, with benefits ranging from lower blood pressure to increased cognitive function. Having a sense of purpose is linked to a longer life expectancy, while the social connections formed through volunteering help combat loneliness and depression.

“For retirees, there’s often a sense of ‘What now?’ after years of structured work or raising a family,” Cheney explains. “Volunteering fills that gap by giving people something to look forward to, a reason to stay engaged, and a way to continue using their skills in meaningful ways.”

What makes Aging Forward’s volunteer network unique is its ease of access. No matter a person’s background or skill set, there’s a role for them. Whether someone is a contractor, professor, driver, or simply has the ‘gift of the gab,’ opportunities exist—from home repairs and transportation assistance to office work and emotional support programs. “The idea is to remove barriers,” Cheney emphasizes. “Whether you want to stay busy, build friendships, or make a difference, there’s a place for you.”

As Aging Forward marks over 50 years of service, it continues to expand its reach, ensuring that more older adults can engage in meaningful volunteer work. The organization partners with local affiliates nationwide, offering diverse opportunities that cater to different interests and abilities.

With April approaching, excitement builds for the announcement of the 2025 National Gallery of Volunteer Excellence honorees. These individuals serve as reminders that volunteering isn’t just about service—it’s about transforming lives, including one’s own.

As Cheney puts it, “Volunteering is a two-way street. The more you give, the more you receive. And that’s what Aging Forward is all about—helping people find purpose, connection, and joy, no matter their age.”