They have found success in having a close link with upper management. The HRVP receives an annual budget from the company, and makes an annual presentation to the President or CEO on upcoming program plans. They have found that with fewer retirees available, they must look for quality programs, rather than quantity of programs for participation. This is a three-year commitment for volunteers. The Ambassadors publish the Courier , and have a yearlong calendar, set one year in advance.
People sign up to volunteer for specific activities at the annual meeting.
Their board has 18 members, plus Community Relations staff. Administrator One challenge for these retirees is finding quality volunteering opportunities. One-time events are of high interest to the group, and are used as a good recruiting tool. Out of a potential pool of 5000 retirees, there are 600 active people in the program. The University retirees serve as ushers at the Ted Mann Theater, and also as tutors in the public schools.