“Helping people is harder than it looks. And yet, every now and then, if you’re willing to take a risk, you can have a truly transformative impact in ways that will continue to ripple out to other people.” – – Nick Kristof, Pulitzer prize winning journalist and co-author of the newly released book, A Path Appears, speaking during the closing keynote of Encore 2014: Building an Encore Nation.
I just returned from the Encore 2014 conference, and without a doubt, it was the single best conference I have ever attended – three days of inspiration and unparalleled networking opportunities. For those of you unfamiliar with Encore.org, it is an organization and movement dedicated to second acts for the greater good and the belief that post-midlife is a time to use one’s personal skills and experience to help others.
I’ll be writing more about the conference on Next Avenue later this month, but in the meantime, being at the conference reminded me to share some of the many helpful Encore resources that you can use to plan your own purpose-focused second act. Here are four of my favorites:
1. Looking for inspiration for your encore? One of the highlights of the conference was the Purpose Prize ceremony which recognizes people over 60 who are using their energy, passion and experience to improve the lives of people in their communities and around the globe. These short video profiles of the Encore Purpose Prize winners will amaze and inspire you. Make the time to watch – I promise you’ll be glad you did.
2. Want to train for an encore career? Encore.org has partnered wtih 40 community colleges to offer encore career programs in education, health care, social services and the environment for adults over 50. Some colleges train students for specific encore roles, such as adjunct nursing instructors and elementary school teachers, while others offer programs designed to help boomers explore encore career possibilities. Here is a link to the colleges page of the Encore site.
3. Want to explore local encore opportunities and support groups? As interest in encore careers grows, individuals and organizations are creating encore programs at the state and local levels. These programs range from the occasional support session to comprehensive services including job preparation and placement, life planning and peer networks for encore career seekers. To learn more click here.
4. Interested in securing an encore career fellowship? Encore Fellowships are paid, yearlong positions for people who want to shift from midlife careers to encore careers. While you work, you’ll earn a stipend, learn about social-purpose work, and develop a new network of contacts and resources for the future. To date, the Encore Fellowship Network program has placed Fellows at more than 200 nonprofits.
Finally, if you’re not quite sure what you need, just go on over to the main Encore.org site where you’ll find hundreds of useful resources, ideas and articles.