Most of our 150 volunteers at our Jewish partner organization, «Chesed-Rachamim» in Minsk, are retired women. To help make their participation possible, we cover the cost of meals for volunteers.

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In Belarus, people typically retire at the age of 55. Consequently, many capable people no longer work, even though they want to stay active and productive. In the «Chesed- Rachamim» Jewish Center, they can continue to get involved in meaningful and satisfying activities that integrate them into a social environment again.

 

«Chesed-Rachamim» trains its volunteers in seminars specially developed for this purpose. Above all, these seminars impart to the participants critical social, cultural, and psychological knowledge related to aging (gerontology).

 

A few years ago, we met a group of female volunteers who came from a wide variety of professions. Some were doctors, printers, librarians, engineers, and many other professionals. When we asked them what motivated their voluntary work, they shared with us these inspirational words:

 

«I'm used to social life, I'd be lonely when I retired.»

 

«I'm not a housewife, I'm a wild woman, I love challenges.»

 

«I'm used to leading people.»

 

«They needed me at work. As a pensioner I was lonely. I overcame this loneliness here. I can help others overcome their loneliness. I feel good here. We also celebrate Jewish festivals together.»

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