Having worked in the nonprofit sector for 41 years I was ready to retire in 2010. When I first entertained the idea about two years prior, I wasn't sure how I would react, who I would connect with, and what I would do post career. Would I consult, travel or just hang around? A friend of mine who had gone through the same process a few years earlier suggested that I take six months off after formally retiring and do no volunteering or make other commitments. Just enjoy the freedom, the serenity, the sleep, and chance to play golf whenever I felt like it. This was the best advice I received!

Retirement is an adjustment; after all, I had been working my entire adult life or in my case even before, having paid my way through school working in the steel mills in Ohio. I wanted to relax, visit my three grown children and my granddaughter, read, play lots of golf and not talk with anyone early in the morning! I set out on this journey with the help of my wife who was still working and continues to do so today, albeit on a reduced schedule. However, like many, eventually I wanted to share some of my experiences, so I spent time wading through papers and books and created a library for any consulting I might do. It wasn't easy, but it gave me time to reflect on all that I had accomplished in my career. It enabled me to see the role I played here and in other communities where I had lived. Soon after, I began getting recruited by other nonprofits to sit on committees and boards. I tried to take it slow and did for the most part. The great part was, I could pick and choose where I wanted to be and with whom. That is the beauty of being independent.

Another great resource for me has been the Retire United program at Metro United Way. Having been a long- time supporter I joined as a committee member at its onset. I chose to stay connected with Metro United Way because of Retire United, which recognizes that retirees have a good deal to offer, we can do it on our terms, there is a need, and our involvement can have a measurable impact within the community.

I invite you to join me on Wednesday, July 26th from 11:30am to 1:30pm at our next Retire United meeting. July's session will feature expert guest speakers, Alex Brown, Senior Consultant, Advisory Services at Ernst & Young LLP and Melody Murphy, Metro United Way’s Director of Digital Engagement. Alex and Melody will be teaching us how to stay safe online while maximizing the benefits of the digital world.

Cyber Security & Social Media Training

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. (lunch will be provided)

Home of the Innocents
Kay & Jim Morrissey Advanced Therapy Center Gymnasium
1100 E. Market St, Louisville, KY 40206

Tours will be available following the event

RSVP by Tuesday, July 25 by clicking the button below or call Nicole Breyette at (502) 292-6138.
Registration is limited, so RSVP soon!

Alan Engel served as Executive Director of the Jewish Community Federation of Louisville from 1988 through October 2010. Prior Board Chair of the Coalition for the Homeless and State Chair of the Commission on Volunteerism (Americorp). Alan earned a Masters in Social Work at The Ohio State University and worked in the non-profit sector for 41 years.