Testimonials

“The U is my best friend.  When I retired, I looked for meaningful activities and found them at the University of Minnesota. The U offers so many wonderful opportunities for retirees.  I volunteer as an English-language tutor for international students enrolled in the Minnesota English Language Program (MELP). Over the past three years, I worked with U of M students from China, Peru, and Thailand to not only improve their English proficiency skills but also to learn more about the culture of the U.S.—and Minnesota, in particular.” 

Fran Linhardt

"Being a community member has been an exceptionally rewarding postlude to a long career. It has given me much greater insight into the human experience."

David Hunter

"Mentoring URS students is a wonderful opportunity for retired faculty; we can truly make a real difference in their academic career."

J. Ravdin

"I volunteered for the 'Student Creativity Festival,' a project of the Success Beyond the Classroom (SBC) program. It was a most gratifying experience—an opportunity to observe students from 29 elementary schools in participatory classes that integrate the arts and sciences."

Alan Kagan

Benefits of Volunteering

  • Meet new people
  • Build community
  • Gain a sense of purpose
  • Gain confidence
  • Keep skills alive
  • Gain new experiences
  • Make an impact
  • Earn new perspectives

Volunteer Appreciation Event

Every year, the URVC invites its dedicated volunteers to attend an appreciation reception. These annual Volunteer Appreciation Days have been hosted at Eastcliff.  The breadth and extent of URVC activities are summarized, volunteerism is promoted and awards are presented to those persons who have gone above and beyond in their zeal for volunteering.

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”

          — Winston Churchill

Organizing food for food share program

Organizing food for pickup at food share program.

Recognition Reception for Volunteers

Reception to Recognize Volunteers