Thursday, March 24, 2011

First Volunteer Opportunity

We have been discussing the possibility of volunteering and/or working for some time.  We joined Workamper.com and created a resume.  We were very surprised how quickly we began receiving emails and phone calls with workamping/volunteering opportunities from New York to California.  The manager of Lakeside RV Park in Branson, Missouri, called to discuss the possibility of us coming to Lakeside for the summer.  Lakeside is a city-owned RV park.  Because of that, there is no bathroom duties, yard work or trash pickup -- the city is responsible for all that.  After our initial telephone interview, we were offered a volunteer position for the summer months at Lakeside.  We will work 22 hours a week for a full hookup site.  That leaves plenty of time for sightseeing.  I will work in the office where I will learn the campground reservation computer program.  And Alan will escort RV'ers to their designated sites.  Of course, we realize things happen and the hours may increase as we  go  along.   There's a lot to see and do, not only in Branson, but the surrounding areas as well.  An additional perk is discounted show tickets, which we may or may not take advantage of.  Since we are from Arkansas, we are somewhat familiar with the area, but we have not been to Branson in years.  We also hope to see family and friends who frequent Branson during the summer. We are praying this will be a positive experience for all.  

Prior to retirement, all my work experience has been in an office setting.  I think I'm afraid to expand my horizons beyond the walls of an office.  I have always worked and have had very few hobbies.  I envy those who garden, quilt, sew, bead, paint, etc, but am intimidated by the likes of a  sewing machine and what I presume to be a lack of knowledge in most creative activities.   Although I love the outdoors, I don't know much about nature and gardening, but I sure like seeing and watching wildlife and smelling beautiful flowers.  Following this assignment, I should know if I wish to continue working in an office or try something new and perhaps conquer some of my insecurities.


If you come near the Branson area, please stop by and say hello.  We will be heading that way in early May.


http://www.bransonlakesidervpark.com/


God bless.




6 comments:

  1. Good luck on this new leaf in your life!

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  2. Welcome to the ranks of volunteers! I sure hope you venture out of the office. There are lots of wonderful things to do out here in the bush! :)

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  3. Branson! That sounds like a fun place to spend the summer. Don't work too hard!

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  4. How exciting for you! I have never been to Branson but have wanted to go. Hope you have a wonderful summer and will be waiting to hear all about it.

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  5. Congratulations on landing your first volunteering post! I will be anxious to learn how you are adjusting in the future. For me, volunteering was and continues to be a modification in thinking. I make myself remember that I am a volunteer, not really in charge of anything (I no longer have to manage people), and it’s not a job, it’s about enjoyment and personnel satisfaction. My advice is to try anything and everything you can, it’s fun and exciting.

    John
    relaxedrush.blogspot.com

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  6. Congratulations on your first volunteer assignment. It sounds like a wonderful opportunity and we hope you have lots of fun this summer!

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