Empty-nesters choose volunteering

Like most parents, Arlen and Shirley Troup came to the point in their lives when they needed to figure out their next chapter.

This time arrived after the reality of empty-nest syndrome set in, and their role as hands-on parents changed.

“When you are faced with empty-nest syndrome, you need something to replace the feeling. I choose volunteer work,” Shirley says. “I was volunteering for the American Cancer Society until they left Elkhart County, and it was then that my friends let me know there was a need at Elkhart General Hospital.”

It is very satisfying to help people and provide a service to Elkhart General, Arlen agrees.

“I don’t recall a favorite moment; it’s just the sum of all the positive things I do as a Redcoat,” he says. “It’s the appreciation expressed by visitors, patients and employees that helps to make it very satisfying.”