How are your New Year resolutions coming along? Have you lost those five pounds you put on over the holidays? Are you exercising more? In a recent StarTribune article by Gail Rosenblum, she quoted psychologist Terry Lyle as saying that “most people give up on their New Year’s goal within three weeks of making it.” It was no surprise that weight loss and exercise was number one and two on the list. What was a surprise is that volunteering was number ten. If you had volunteering as something that you would like to pursue in 2008, the Minnesota Senior Federation hopes that you will consider doing so with us. We have volunteer opportunities that range from once a year to weekly.

The following opportunities are among those available at the St. Paul office.

Mailroom coordinator: This is a commitment to help prepare bulk mailings that are usually done on the first and third Wednesday of each month in the membership department. This job has three areas of responsibilities: copying material for mailings, stuffing envelopes, preparing postage mailing statements, maintenance of postal accounts and taking mail to the post office. These duties could be divided and served by more than one volunteer. Training is provided for all positions.  

Sales prospecting: We are looking for someone to assist the sales director with media kits, rate sheets and contacting past advertisers. If you have a home computer with Internet access you have the option of working from your home. 

Health Plan Information counselors: This is a weekly commitment to counsel people over the phone and in person regarding health plans and other related health coverage plans. Training is provided.

Welcome callers: This is a volunteer position that you can do from the comfort of your home or come into the office - it is your choice. Callers are needed to phone our new members and welcome them to the Federation and to introduce them to the programs and benefits of membership.

Membership renewal specialists: Callers are needed to phone members who have let their memberships lapse and remind them of the benefits and work of the Federation. This can be done from your home or at the office.

Assistant to the receptionist: If you like customer service, greeting visitors, answering phones and processing mail, consider volunteering as an assistant to the receptionist. This position offers a flexible work schedule.

Volunteer Speakers Bureau: Are you comfortable speaking in front of groups of people? The Minnesota Senior Federation is looking for volunteers to represent the Federation by giving community presentations about the organization’s health programs and specific work of the Federation. Whether you simply enjoy speaking in front of groups or have a personal experience with one of the Senior Federation’s programs and want to share them with others, we encourage you to join the speaker’s bureau.

If you are interested in any positions listed above or would like to discuss other volunteer opportunities, contact Lynn Moseng at 651/783-5018 or at . Those members who live in greater Minnesota should contact their area office for volunteer opportunities.