Most people slow down after retirement, but not Nick Ross. Upon retiring from the U.S. Navy,, he decided he wasn’t done serving yet. He found his next mission at the Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Gainesville, where he discovered something that would shape his path forward: watching fellow veterans and their families navigate the health care systems seniors must use. His experience at the VA gave Ross insight into the special challenges veterans and their families face.
When Ross finally did retire from the VA, that mission stayed with him. So when he heard an ad for SHINE—Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders—he knew he’d found the perfect way to continue the work. He called Elder Options, signed up for training and became a certified SHINE Medicare counselor, ready to help seniors navigate the same confusing systems he’d seen trip up so many veteran families.
Ross’s first SHINE post was simple: a small table placed between a window and a vending machine at the VA. When foot traffic slowed, he didn’t wait around, he took his mission to the halls. He knew from experience that VA waiting rooms were typically full of veterans often comparing ailments and insurance plans. With his SHINE training, Ross could now clarify information, answer questions, and help people avoid costly mistakes.
Ask Ross about one of his most memorable moments, and he doesn’t hesitate. A woman undergoing chemotherapy had been sold an insurance policy that didn’t cover her doctors or hospital—right in the middle of treatment. “She was devastated and didn’t know what to do. She had just lost her husband two years earlier to cancer,” Ross recalls. A friend gave her the Elder Helpline number, 1-800-262-2243, and the call landed with the Elder Options SHINE team. “We were able to get her out of the plan she was sold and back to her doctors so she could continue her treatment,” Ross says, his pride unmistakable. “It was awesome!”
The work keeps Ross coming back because it hits all the right notes: it’s hands-on, makes a tangible difference, and is intellectually challenging. Since becoming a SHINE volunteer in 2016, he’s helped countless seniors navigate their insurance options. “For a volunteer position to be meaningful, you need to have a level of passion about the topic, and SHINE gives me that,” he explains. As for balancing volunteer work with the rest of life? “Poorly! At least my wife might say that,” he said. “She volunteers at our grandchildren’s school, so she understands the importance of it. She supports what I do, and I try to organize my work to keep certain days free.”
Ross’s advice for older adults considering volunteering: “Try something, anything! You’ll find out that you do have the time and energy necessary to contribute to people who really need your help.” “You’ll also find that you benefit tremendously—much more than you thought possible. You’ll make new friends that you enjoy working with. If you’re just retiring from a high-stress job, take some time to relax, travel, and complete that list of ‘someday I’m going to….’ Then, when you ask yourself ‘Now what do I do?’ volunteering is a great way to contribute to the community.”
He also notes the personal rewards. “I’ve gained new friends and meaningful work with immediate positive feedback. It’s a great way to stay engaged and make a real difference.”
Want to Get Involved?
If you’re looking for meaningful way to help others, SHINE and other volunteer roles through Elder Options might be your answer.. Whether you like working directly with people or supporting behind the scenes, there’s a place for every skill set. A few hours of your time could be exactly what someone needs. To learn more about Elder Options and volunteer opportunities, call 1-800-262-2243 or visit www.agingresources.org/volunteers.
Know a Senior Making a Difference?
Nick Ross’s story is just one example of how seniors are giving back to their communities. If you know a volunteer, mentor, advocate, or community leader who deserves recognition, we’d love to shine a spotlight on them. Share their story with us and help celebrate the seniors who make our community stronger. Email kanarekl@agingresources.org
