Seniors across Pittsburgh are finding purpose, connection, and renewed energy through volunteering with the Pittsburgh CitiParks Healthy Active Living Centers, a network of community-based programs operated by the City of Pittsburgh that support wellness, social engagement, and lifelong learning.
At centers located throughout neighborhoods in Allegheny County, CitiParks’ Healthy Active Living (HAL) programs offer a wide range of activities for adults ages 60 and older. These include fitness classes, educational workshops, art and music programs, nutrition services, day trips, and social gatherings designed to reduce isolation and promote healthy aging. Behind many of these programs is an often-unsung group of contributors: the older adult volunteers themselves.
For many participants, volunteering becomes a natural extension of their own involvement in the centers. After first attending classes or events as members, some older adults begin helping with check-in tables, assisting instructors, organizing activities and fundraisers, leading peer discussions, teaching classes, or supporting special events and seasonal programs.
Valerie Tarbert enjoys being a member of the Sheraden HAL Center.
Sandy Roberts, 73, of Allegheny, initially got involved four years ago because her daughter, Kristin Coyne, serves as Director at the South Side Market House HAL Center. “I very much enjoy volunteering,” Sandy comments. “It makes me feel good to help people with what they need. We do crafts, play bingo, and learn how to grow houseplants. I also assist with lunchtime, since the center serves lunch every Monday through Friday.”
According to program coordinators, older adult volunteers are essential to the day-to-day functioning of the centers. Their lived experiences and familiarity with their neighborhoods help create welcoming environments where participants feel comfortable returning again and again.
Valerie Tarbert, 68, of Sheraden joined the Sheraden HAL Center as a member when she turned 60, then three years ago began assisting with craft classes, bingo, monthly outings and holiday parties (and her husband, Don, fills the role of Santa Claus at the annual Christmas party). “I was retired and needed to get out of the house, and I knew some of the people there,” Val explains. “One of them asked me to ask with help with crafts and then I was asked to be on the advisory council. I’m currently serving as council vice president.”
Beyond logistical support, volunteers often serve as informal mentors and companions. In a system designed to promote active living, their presence strengthens the social fabric of the centers by helping bridge generational gaps, reduce loneliness, and foster peer-to-peer encouragement around health and wellness goals.
“Volunteering has also made me realize there is more hardship in the world than you might think there is,” Sandy shares, noting that the South Side Market House HAL regularly has people from the neighborhoods who are homeless or disabled come to the center. “We look after them and even do wellness phone calls if we don’t see some of our regulars for a few days or longer.”
Many volunteers describe the experience as mutually beneficial. While they contribute time and energy, they also gain structure and a renewed sense of purpose in retirement or semi-retirement. For some, it is a way to stay mentally and physically active; for others, it is a chance to give back after decades of work or caregiving roles.
“For me and for others at the center, one of the biggest benefits is the social aspect,” Val comments. “Many of the elderly become housebound, and it’s good to get out, move your body, and be around people. I do what I can to help out, and there are some physical things I can’t do, but everyone pitches in and we have fun.”
To learn more about the CitiParks Healthy Active Living Centers and to inquire about becoming a volunteer, call (412) 422-6401, email HALCenters@pittsburghpa.gov or visit pittsburghpa.gov/citiparks/healthy-active-living.