ACCIDENTAL CAREER

Hi Uncle,

I am a fifty year old married man with two grown children and three grandchildren. I am semi-retired due to an accident and need to change career paths. My greatest interest lies with helping troubled or at risk children.

I have no formal education or training in this field and am probably too old to start a degree program now. Is there a way to get my foot in the door with an organization that specializes in this field? On the job training, classes, or even volunteer work to start with?

I love kids, and just to possibly make a small difference in their lives would be very rewarding for me.

By the way, I don't need to make much income.

Thanks,
Ray Smith
Venice, Fl.


Ray,

Sorry about your career changing accident. Many accidental careers launch us to new heights. I wish you all the best in your desire to serve needy and troubled kids.

Commitment to a degree program seems ponderous and costly. A more practical approach is in order.

With your best intentions and efforts as a given, the possibility of law suits weighs against institutions including non-professionals in their employ. That doesn't mean you can't knock on doors and impress them with your sincerity and ambition.

If your accident qualifies you as disabled or you want to help the disabled, contact disabled associations. They are always looking for volunteers. Use the Internet to gather information.

Crossing guards and school bus drivers are always in demand. These positions carry little glory but they do yield some income and provide opportunities to set positive examples for today's kids that so desperately need wholesome role models.

Affiliating yourself with church organizations, sports groups, local parents, police programs, community projects could open some doors for you. Volunteers are always in demand. Hospitals often allow people to bring dogs and other pets to cheer up patients of all ages.

There are no specific roads to your goal; therefore, it will be up to you to scratch at every door and hint of opportunity. Build a resume of service and inquiry. Meanwhile be the world's greatest grandpa to your grandchildren. If they are nearby, great. If at a distance, regular E-mail and phone calls can make huge differences in a child's life. Trust me on this on. I have a wonderful niece and the phone bills to prove it.


Perhaps some of my readers and listeners can supply additional information.

Persevere,

Everybody's Uncle