www.seniorcitizensguide.com/articles/activities/participate-arts.htm
So the next time you walk by the park and see a frail figure with gray hair, who's time in life is shown by the permanent wrinkles etched in their skin - don't feel sorry for them - and certainly don't dismiss them - for they are probably only temporarily taking time out of their busy schedule to enjoy the beauty of a park they help create, or cool themselves in the shade of a now large tree they helped plant, or have stopped to rest on a bench they very well may have built with their hands. So no, don't feel sorry for them, and don't make the mistake of dismissing them - instead you should admire them. Even though they no longer get paid for their services, they are more than likely still contributing to the community they helped build. There is a good chance that, if you followed them to their final destination, you would see them slip an apron over their head - put on a pair of work gloves, or button up the front of a uniform - and dig in to the business of supporting the community through volunteer service.
That is the experience we at the RGV Entertainment Group have discovered anyway. Invariable, when one of our volunteers apologies for not being able to participate in the current activity that is scheduled for that day, it is because their volunteer services are needed at some hospital, food bank, zoo, animal shelter, or maybe just to take care of a sick friend or relative. Those who are active will remain active, those who care will continue to care, and those who help build the community will continue to support it to the best of their abilities.