Service Opportunities for Older Persons
Service Opportunities for Older Persons is a program of Mennonite Mission Network to provide opportunities to older adults to share of the experience and expertise in service to the world while also enjoying the benefits of retirement. Tucson has long been a host for SOOP volunteers, mainly hosting people from the US and Canada wishing to winter here in the temperate southwest while also being offered the satisfaction of working in the community. SOOP is open to anyone year round, provided the ability of the program to accomodate you.
The volunteer opportunites available in Tucson are many and varied. Our primary work arrangement is with Community Home Repair Projects of Arizona which does emergency home repair and adaptation for low income and disabled home owners of all sorts. Trucks, tools, and supervision are provided for a four day work week. Other volunteer opportunities range from support of the Community Food Bank, local schools, sewing adaptive clothing and therapeutic items for people with disabilities, border issues work, among others. Volunteer assignments are generally open to self direction and self regulation in terms of time commitment, type of work, and location, with most SOOPers opting to work 4 days a week to allow more time to enjoy the Tucson sun.
Housing for SOOP volunteers in Tucson is available primarily by several hookup sites for recreational vehicles on the church campus and by special arrangements with hosts in the area. Personal arrangements can be made for longer term housing with private rental agencies or other RV parks as individuals prefer. In the busy season of the winter months, a weekly bible study is also offered to foster fellowship and spiritual growth for participants.
We recently received some national coverage from The Mennonite. Read the story on the Mennonite Website.
It is our great pleasure to have you work along side us in our community. If you are ready for the challenge, start by visiting the MMN SOOP website and filling out an application. If you have questions specifically about the Tucson program, use the form below to be in touch.
