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Volunteer Vacations That Make a Difference
Trivia: What is the world’s northernmost national capital?
RetireHub
September 25, 2025
Rise and shine, RetireHub community! ☀️ Your Thursday newsletter is here!
Today we’re sharing fun tips on Volunteer Vacations That Make a Difference, along with the best deals, fun trivia, and more!
Top Deals From Around The Web
We find the best daily online deals so you don’t have to!
🍋 40% OFF – Zulay Premium Quality Metal Squeezer
Get every last drop with this sleek aluminum citrus juicer that’s built for easy squeezing and durability. Its single‑bowl design ensures that juice passes cleanly through built‑in holes that catch seeds and pulp, making it perfect for lemons, limes, and small oranges. No batteries, no complex cleanup — just efficient, fresh juice in seconds.
🕯️ 52% – Candle Making Kit for Adults
Unwind and get creative with this all‑in‑one kit for crafting your own scented candles. It typically includes wax, wicks, molds, dyes (or fragrances), and instructions—everything you need to make beautiful candles at home. Great as a hobby, for gifts, or for adding a cozy, personal touch to your space.
🎶 28% OFF – East Top Harmonica (Key of C, Beginner‑Friendly)
Make a little music wherever you are with this compact, easy‑to‑learn harmonica. Designed in the popular key of C, it produces clear, rich sound and comes in a protective case. Great for beginners, traveling, or sparking joy with a bit of blues, folk, or country charm.
What We’re Reading
Get these e-book deals before they’re gone.
 | By: Eric H. Heisner An old murder case is dug up in a rural community, unsettling everyone from their routine. Based on lies and deceit, the interested party is closer to the incident than expected. |
On this day in 1980, John Bonham, drummer of Led Zeppelin, died at just 32 years old. Renowned for his thunderous style and impeccable timing, Bonham’s drumming was the heartbeat of one of rock’s most legendary bands. His sudden death prompted the breakup of Led Zeppelin later that year, as the remaining members felt the group could not continue without him. His influence lives on, with generations of musicians citing him as one of the greatest drummers of all time.
Volunteer Vacations That Make a Difference
Travel with a purpose—and come home with more than just souvenirs.
Imagine exploring a new place not just as a visitor, but as someone who truly contributes to the well-being of a local community or the environment. That’s the beauty of a volunteer vacation—a meaningful travel experience that blends adventure with service.
For many, retirement or a flexible work schedule opens up new possibilities to explore the world more slowly and intentionally. Volunteer vacations are perfect for people who want to give back, learn something new, and connect more deeply with the places they visit. Whether you're passionate about education, wildlife, health, or conservation, there’s likely a program out there that matches your interests and abilities.
What Kinds of Opportunities Are There?
Volunteer vacations vary widely, both in location and type of service. Some programs place you in rural schools where you can help children improve their English skills. Others invite you to work in wildlife sanctuaries—feeding animals, building enclosures, or helping with rehabilitation efforts. Conservation projects may take you to breathtaking natural settings, where you might help with trail maintenance, beach cleanups, or native plant restoration.
Closer to home, some domestic programs allow you to help rebuild homes in disaster-struck communities or offer your time at national parks.
A Good Fit for Seasoned Travelers
Many volunteer organizations are welcoming to older adults and even design programs with seniors in mind. These trips often include flexible hours, comfortable accommodations, and built-in time for rest and sightseeing. You won’t need to be a backpacker to join in—just bring your curiosity, compassion, and willingness to lend a hand.
Things to Keep in Mind
Before booking, it’s important to research thoroughly. Reputable programs should be transparent about fees, accommodations, and the actual impact of the work. Look for reviews, ask questions, and make sure the organization aligns with your values. You might also consider travel insurance and checking with your doctor before committing to physical tasks abroad.
Why It’s Worth It
A volunteer vacation can be transformative. Not only will you see new places, but you’ll also form connections, gain fresh perspectives, and return home with a deep sense of purpose. The memories you make—and the lives you touch—will likely outlast any postcard or keepsake.
✈️ Would you ever consider taking a volunteer vacation? |
Yesterday’s Poll Results: What draws you into a book series?
It turns out the heart of a good book series is just that—a whole lot of heart. With nearly a quarter of readers saying “the characters feel like friends,” it’s clear we crave connection in our stories. Whether it’s watching relationships bloom, uncovering a slow-burning mystery, or escaping into the past through rich historical detail, each reader finds their own spark.
And for some? It’s the cozy charm and gentle humor that keep the kettle whistling and the chapters flowing. Whether you’re in it for the long haul or prefer a stand-alone gem now and then, the beauty of books is that there’s always another door to open.
TOP COMMENTS
“I like book series. You get to know the characters and see them evolve. I have just discovered mystery books by Iris Johansen who has written 31 books with the same main character; I plan to buy them all, a few at a time, and read them in order.”
“I enjoy witty books about other worlds to get lost in. Fantasy is my favorite. Something I can't relate to in my own messed up world.”
“I love learning more about the characters with each novel so, in a sense, my relationship with the characters is also evolving! Thank you for the book series suggestions - I will definitely look into these.”
Boundaries Build Confidence: Why Saying “No” Feels Like Self‑Respect After 60
As we grow older, the power of a well-set boundary becomes clearer—not as a barrier, but as an act of self‑respect and confidence. After 60, time and energy feel more precious than ever, and relationships that demand too much or diminish your voice begin to weigh heavier. To preserve what matters—your peace, values, and joy—setting limits isn’t selfish; it’s essential.
Saying “no” without explanation is one step toward reclaiming your agency. Boundaries help you protect your priorities—whether it's rest, creativity, or time with loved ones—without feeling guilty or small. Yes, those who depend on you may resist or feel surprised. But that’s often the moment when you reinforce your worth and help others see you as someone whose needs matter equally.
The process isn't always comfortable. Discomfort often marks growth. As you practice, your confidence strengthens. Your relationships may shift, deepen, or reorder—but these changes often bring clarity. In fact, boundaries strengthen connection because they encourage respect, honesty, and mutual understanding. You begin to care deeply without losing yourself.
Ultimately, building boundaries after 60 is an invitation to honor your history, your dreams, and your daily life. It’s about being gentle but firm, clear but compassionate—with others and with yourself. In that space, confidence blossoms.
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Slang Phrase of the Day
Phrase: Let them cook
Meaning: “Let them cook” is a slang phrase that means “let someone do their thing”—usually without interference, because they seem to be on a roll, coming up with something creative, surprising, or brilliant. It originated from a literal context (as in, letting someone finish preparing a meal), but evolved into a broader, metaphorical use in internet and Gen Z culture.
It can imply trust, encouragement, or admiration—especially when someone is in the middle of doing something clever, passionate, or unexpected.
In a sentence: “Did you see Nancy organizing that fundraiser while planning her garden tour? I just stepped back and let her cook—she clearly had a vision!”
Good News of the Day
A Lost Letter, 24 Years Later: A Son Finally Reads His Mother’s Words
More than two decades after her heroic death on United Airlines Flight 93 during the September 11 attacks, Jevon Castrillo received a letter his mother wrote in March 2001 that had been preserved by his kindergarten teacher. Cee Cee Ross Lyles, who died when passengers rose up to retake control of the hijacked plane, had penned the note to praise her young son’s reading progress—long before tragedy interrupted their shared story. His teacher, Tammy Thurman, held onto the letter through several moves, and when it was delivered to Jevon 24 years later, it brought tears, comfort, and a deeply emotional reconnection to a mother’s pride and love.
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RetireHub Trivia
Want more trivia? Play our “Nostalgia Trivia Game” on our site! We add fresh questions daily, so there’s always something new to test your knowledge.
Not into trivia? No worries! We’ve got plenty of other fun games to enjoy, like:
What was the first film released with the new PG-13 rating in 1984? |
Which chemical element (symbol Cm) was named in honor of Marie and Pierre Curie? |
What is the world’s northernmost national capital? |
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