Volunteering in the Roanoke Valley

Although Brandon Oaks is a “retirement community,” there are two things residents want you to know:
1.) You don’t have to be retired!
2.) Retirement doesn’t mean less active or busy!

Brandon Oaks Residents Winnie Bloom (second from left) and Margaret Zerbst (third from left) volunteering at Center in the Square. Photo courtesy of Center in the Square.

Along with the numerous activities, clubs and social events at Brandon Oaks, many residents also devote their time to other organizations in the Roanoke Valley.   From local hospitals to arts organizations, residents’ passions are as unique as they are. Many residents describe retirement as their opportunity to truly immerse themselves into community organizations that mean the most to them. In addition to the fun you’ll have, volunteering has been found to be good for your health. A study published in the British Medical Journal found that 25% of those over 60 years of age volunteered, and their mental health and emotional well-being benefited from it. The larger networks, mentally or physically stimulating tasks and social aspects of devoting one’s time to a cause were seen as reasons for the positive trend.

Resident Janet Johnson unloading supplies for the Rotary Club of Roanoke’s “Pack-A-Snack” Program. Photo courtesy of Rotary Club of Roanoke.

Many of our residents volunteer, or serve on boards, for organizations such as:

  • Rotary Club of Roanoke
  • Roanoke College
  • Roanoke Symphony Orchestra
  • Salem-Roanoke County Food Pantry
  • American Cancer Society’s Discovery Shop
  • Opera Roanoke
  • Center in the Square
  • Virginians for the Arts
  • Brandon Oaks Nursing and Rehab Center
  • Many more!