The Newest Seniors At Schools Around The Country Are Volunteers Not Students

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., Nov. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- They spend countless hours in the classroom – decades after they attended school themselves.  Whether it's painting murals on the walls of a new elementary school, reading with students in the classroom or raising funds for much needed supplies - Del Webb residents are known for their volunteer efforts in schools across the nation.  

"We are bringing together two different generations and it's a very positive experience for both," said Barbara Graves, 67, who is known by the students at Rutland Elementary School as 'Grandma Rutland'.  Dozens of Graves' neighbors volunteer with her at the school, which is located across the street from Lake Providence by Del Webb in Mount Juliet, Tennessee.  "I feel like I've become a surrogate grandmother of hundreds of children.  The kids make their way into your heart and the teachers are so appreciative of the time and resources we provide them."

Nearly 70 percent of Del Webb communities have reported an increase in the level of volunteerism over the past three years, according to findings from a recent internal Company survey.  Del Webb regularly conducts surveys at its more than 50 active selling communities nationwide to monitor new and emerging trends.  In the same survey, 75 percent of the communities reported a high level of volunteerism by residents; a trend that has continued even as most Del Webb communities have seen an increase in the number of still-working residents in the past ten years, said Judy Julison, national director of lifestyle operations for the Company.

"We find that the core motivations of active adult homebuyers center around leading more fulfilling lives - and that doesn't just mean engaging in social and recreational activities or working out at the gym," Julison said.  "Baby Boomers have been changing this country for decades and they continue to look for ways to make a difference.  Today, fulfillment includes giving back to society, and one of the most rewarding ways is in your own community and in local schools where the need is great. At the same time, you stay active and connected while growing personally as you help others learn."

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