Retirees may be ready to teach and share their expertise if your Social Solutions Group members are open to mutually considering and following their advice. There are many retired professionals who have the spare time to provide key pointers that can guide your objectives. They possess years of expertise from working in the Business, Financial, Education, Housing, Public Health, Urban Environment, Social Services or Skilled Trades, etc. After you gather your team, make a list of the additional information you need. Conduct a mini search by interviewing elders in the community to get leads on persons who can assist you to meet your objective. Begin with people who are familiar with you for purposes of safety and trust. See if you can get their support and recommend others who might be of assistance.
Sample professional organizations may include: National Black Social Workers, National Black Nurses, National Society of Black Engineers, or even your local Veteran’s Organization. Conduct a search for National African American Professional Organizations or Associations. There might be a local member or chapter in your city or state. The professional org may have a Retiree’s Association or member's list that can connect you with volunteers who may be interested in serving as an advisor to your project.
Its important that your Social Solutions Group is serious and interacts with the professional group or contact in a business-like manner. Be very clear on your objectives before approaching professionals willing to assist your group. Your approach may encourage or discourage their engagement with you depending on how your representative presents him or herself. Dress the part, but don’t overdress – in business or business casual attire. It may be beneficial if you practice using a prepared script about your Social Solutions Group and the assistance or advice you are seeking.
The professional org may have or be interested in establishing an apprenticeship program. Some of your Social Solutions Group members may be interested in being trained in a specific profession or skill. Group members may be interested in becoming licensed Nurses, Electricians, Plumbers, Roofers, Carpenters, Welders, or Environmental Specialists. You might be surprised to discover how quickly your Social Solutions Group can resolve your objective by following the lead of those who are knowledgeable with elements of your chosen action project.