When your kids leave home, it can feel like a big part of your daily purpose has shifted. After years of focusing on parenting, you might find yourself wondering, “What now?” This transition happens to all of us. You’ll naturally start to fill your days with stuff—hobbies, home remodeling projects, yard work. If you’re like us, you’re still working with many more years to go. So yes, you replace your schedule. But here’s what I’ve discovered: a lot of times we’re missing that deeper connection and fulfillment we used to get from parenting, unless you’re genuinely content just laying low for a while.
One thing that has been a huge help for me is service. Giving back is a wonderful way to fill that space with real meaning and genuine connection that brings joy. Whether you’re new to the empty nest or have been here for a while, finding ways to contribute to your community or causes you care about can bring a renewed purpose to your life.
I’ve found a few food banks that I’ve been working with for a while now, and this experience has brought me so much more than I expected. It has given me new perspective, humbled me, and reminded me of what I have and how to be even more grateful. You get to meet people from all walks of life—both those you serve and those you serve alongside. It has helped me see what things I can do better once I’m back home. It makes you think about all that you have, what you might be able to give up, and what you could be doing better.
Volunteering offers more than just a way to keep busy. You connect with others who share your passions and values. When I leave a shift, I feel a genuine sense of accomplishment and usefulness that carries me through the rest of my day. I work at two different food pantries. One is faith-based, run by a faith I don’t personally participate in, but I love that they’re giving back to those in need. They start at 6 a.m. on Tuesdays and work for a few hours until people arrive to collect food. The other is a non profit that starts on Saturday mornings starting at 8, and it can go for hours as hundreds of cars show up. The need keeps growing every time I help out, especially with rising food prices making it harder for families to make ends meet.
What I’ve found is that volunteering has really boosted my mental and emotional well-being. When I get home from serving, I’m so much better at tackling the things I want to achieve. It helps me explore new interests and skills as I discover what I’m good at and where I genuinely enjoy spending my time. And honestly, it’s made me a better spouse too. There’s something about serving others that softens you, makes you more patient and present when you come home. My wife has noticed the difference, I’m less focused on the small stuff that doesn’t matter and more appreciative of what we have together. When you’re pouring into others, it fills you up in a way that overflows into your marriage. You become more loveable because you’re more fulfilled, less restless, and more grateful for the life you’re building together in this new season. I love that I can make a positive impact beyond just my family. Here’s the thing: you don’t have to do food pantries, and you don’t have to commit time every single week. It’s really just about finding a rebalance—helping, serving, and getting regrounded in the things that truly matter to you.
Now, not every volunteer role will fit you, and that’s okay. Start with what matters most to you. Are you an animal lover who would thrive at a local shelter? Do you care about education or the arts? Whatever tugs at your heart is where you should begin looking. Even with a busy work schedule, you have time, just need to be honest about how much. I show up when I can without keeping a rigid commitment because things come up. I do occasional shifts rather than committing to the same weekly time, so I can help when it truly matters without the pressure.
I’ve also seen people in these volunteer roles who are incredibly talented, and it made me think on what abilities I could share. Think about your skills and talents too. What do you bring to the table that could make a difference? And make sure whatever you choose fits your lifestyle. Choose something nearby or you’ll lose interest quickly. Make sure it’s not too physically demanding or you’ll lose motivation. The goal is to help you become stronger and better in all your relationships, including the one with yourself.
Let me share some options that might spark something in you. Food banks and pantries are where I started, and they’re always looking for help. It’s hands-on, meaningful, and you see the direct impact of your work. Mentoring or tutoring lets you share your life experience, whether it’s youth who need guidance or adults working toward their GED—your wisdom matters. Community gardens are growing all over, and I saw one recently here in Georgia that was absolutely beautiful, a great place to walk around and see how far the community has come together. Community cleanup groups organize days of service where you can make your neighborhood better while meeting neighbors you might never have connected with otherwise.
Libraries and museums are perfect if you want to spend time around your passions, whether that’s books, history, or art. They always need volunteers for programs and events. Animal rescue centers are calling your name if you’re passionate about pets. You can volunteer at the center or even foster animals temporarily—this is huge for so many empty nesters I know. And if you loved planning your kids’ events, imagine channeling that energy into event planning and fundraising for causes you love. You can tap into your organizational skills while supporting something truly meaningful.
Your volunteer work should be rewarding, not draining. Set boundaries. Choose activities you genuinely enjoy. Remember that your well-being comes first. Volunteering should add joy to your life, not stress. Many empty nesters I know have found new friendships, renewed purpose, and even surprising new directions through volunteering. One of our friends discovered a passion for teaching she never knew she had. Another friend found a community of like-minded people who became some of her closest friends.
Volunteering after parenting isn’t just about filling time, it’s about finding new meaning and connection in this next chapter of your life. Whether you give a little or a lot, your efforts matter. And so do you. So let me ask you this: What’s tugging at your heart right now? What cause or community need keeps coming to mind? That might just be your starting point. You don’t need to commit to anything huge right away. Just take one small step. Research one organization. Send one email. Show up for one shift.
Your life can be just as purposeful and fulfilling as it was when your kids were home, it just looks different now. And that’s not just okay, it’s actually pretty exciting when you think about it. The world needs what you have to give. Your community is waiting. And you? You’re ready for this next chapter of service and connection. Now go find your place to serve and you won’t regret it.
