Katharine Winderlin had heard the advice: When you retire, have a plan.
So before she called it a career as a library system coordinator in 2003, Winderlin decided she wanted to spend some of her post-career time volunteering. She was particularly interested in an opportunity to work one-on-one with someone in need.
`I wanted my volunteer time to make a difference in someone’s life,` she said.
Winderlin, 68, hooked up with Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Services of Saratoga County, a not-for-profit organization that aids victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. She has taken part in a domestic violence task force, served as a court advocate and helped bring anti-domestic violence message to schools. She’s logged the most hours, though, as a volunteer on the organization’s hotline, answering calls two nights a week.
Winderlin has been successful in making a difference in people’s lives, so much so that DVRC Executive Director Executive Director Maggie Fronk nominated her as the state’s outstanding senior volunteer through a contest sponsored by by Home Instead Senior Care, a national in-home care agency. Winderlin was named the state’s top senior volunteer during a ceremony Tuesday, June 12, at DVRC.
`I honestly did not anticipate this at all. It was a complete surprise,` she said, noting that there are a number of senior volunteers right in the Capital District who would have been worthy of the award.
As nice as the recognition is, Winderlin said the driving force behind her volunteer work remains the chance to connect with someone in need. She’s able to answer calls right at her house, not needing any special equipment. Some callers are in immediate crisis; others are dealing with long-standing issues.
All have one thing in common: The benefit from having a compassionate voice on the other line.
`It’s wonderful to be there when you’re needed,` Winderlin said.
Over the past decade, Winderlin has devoted more than 6,400 hours to DVRC, in addition to volunteering with Meals on Wheels and Hospice. As one of 50 state winners, Winderlin earned a spot in the Salute to Senior Service Wall of Fame on the SalutetoSeniorService.com website, where her nomination story also has been posted.
