MediumThe Lazy Retiree’s Volunteer Guide | by David Webster | Crow’s Feet: Life As We Age | Sep, 2026 | Medium
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Crow’s Feet: Life As We Age

“The longer I live, the more beautiful life becomes.” (Frank Lloyd Wright) Non-fiction pieces, personal essays and occasional poems that explore how we feel about how we age and offer tips for getting the most out of life.

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The Lazy Retiree’s Volunteer Guide

4 min readSep 23, 2026

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This is a photo of the author’s lower legs and feet in shoes, stretched out on a recliner.
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First, let me be completely honest. I’m not a golfer. Never have been and can’t honestly say time spent on the links is why I’m a lazy volunteer. I putter in the shop making things, do some writing here at Medium and spend time with my wife, none of which should keep me from volunteering.

However, I’ve found a way to help others in the absolute most time efficient way, short of writing a check or doing an online donation. Unfortunately, I get no credit on my taxes for charitable contributions, which seems a shame, really.

Sure, over the years I’ve helped at school activities and swim meets when my kids were younger. I’ve ridden the school bus on outings and helped neighbors and friends move countless boxes and furniture. I’ve helped at community or club events, and I’m in the process of becoming a Rotary member, if they take me. I know they’ll want me to join committees and be a volunteer at events, and I’ll happily join them, as I know they do good work.

Perhaps you’ve already figured out this simple trick to feeling like a valued member of society, doing your part for the common good.

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David Webster
David Webster

Written by David Webster

Retired airline pilot sharing nonfiction stories. Husband, father, grandfather, blood donor. Trying to live a life of equanimity.

Crow’s Feet: Life As We Age
Crow’s Feet: Life As We Age

Published in Crow’s Feet: Life As We Age

“The longer I live, the more beautiful life becomes.” (Frank Lloyd Wright) Non-fiction pieces, personal essays and occasional poems that explore how we feel about how we age and offer tips for getting the most out of life.