Who says you are past your prime after you retire? Many retirees feel they are often “put out to pasture,” and they long for something creative and useful to do because they no longer have the 9 to 5 job. But Chicagoan Art Matthews, a retiree who volunteers with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, says there are plenty of things to do with one’s time, if you examine your interests and put one foot in front of the other. You might just find a new calling. –tony binns
What brought you back to Chicago after you retired?
I was an electronics engineer and worked in California for a number of years. I worked with companies like Sprint. I decided to come back to Chicago to retire and take it easy. However, I do volunteer.
Talk about some of your volunteer efforts.
I recently finished working with the Chicago Music Awards. I also work with the Chicago Symphony. My part with the symphony is during intermission. I introduce children to the various orchestra instruments as well as do arts and crafts with them.
What is the best part about volunteering?
You get to meet a lot of people. It gives you something to do, and you feel you are wanted and needed. As a volunteer, you still have to conduct yourself in a positive and professional manner by showing up on time and being well-groomed.
