Celebrating a Volunteer’s Selflessness

Growing up in Louisiana, AARP volunteer Norman Bell was incredibly accustomed to sharing with friends and family. On a daily basis, he would watch as his neighbors exchanged items from their garden with his parents and vice versa. Norman found comfort in watching wholesome relationships develop in his neighborhood and knew that he wanted to emulate the same compassion and friendliness as he grew up. Witnessing this selflessness as a child inspired Bell to commit his life to helping others, and he has undoubtedly fulfilled that mission throughout his career and long-term involvement with AARP Ohio.

Upon beginning his career in Ohio, Norman gravitated towards positions that helped to develop his surrounding community and provide assistance for those that needed it.

“My first job was with an insurance company and I was extremely motivated by working with and helping others,” Bell recalls. “I also became a bailiff for the city of Toledo which was another great opportunity to serve my community.”

However, when the time came for Norman to retire in 1987, he knew that he wanted to continue to give back to others in some way. As a result, he went on to diligently serve the 50+ generation as a volunteer with AARP Ohio.

Bell has been volunteering with AARP Ohio for 25+ years and is still active today. He has held several positions with the organization throughout this time. He has especially fond memories of being Regional Coordinator for the AARP Driver Safety Program.

“I held this position for 6 years, and it involved me meeting with state officials and communicating that I would need their help in developing the AARP Driver Safety Program,” Bell says. “It was a remarkable experience that I will never forget. It challenged me to do new things and meet new people, which was incredibly important.”

Norman’s experience as an AARP volunteer has broadened his horizons and strengthened his desire to assist his community in any way possible. He is grateful for the positions he’s held and appreciates what they have taught him about the world.

“I consider it very important to develop healthy relationships. It makes life worth living,” Bell says. “The volunteers are here to give direction and help to folks who need it.”

Living among the stress and uncertainty of the coronavirus outbreak has greatly influenced Norman’s perception of what it means to be an AARP volunteer. He strives to communicate hope to the 50+ generation and to help Ohioans who are feeling isolated as the nation participates in social distancing.

“I see more and more people my age wanting to help with the virus situation,” Norman states. “Networking and staying connected has been very important for me during this time, and I enjoy being a referral source for those who need direction.”

Going forward, Norman remembers some guiding statements that he calls to mind often as he remains a volunteer with AARP during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Continue to establish healthy relationships where you can and provide whatever assistance you can to individuals,” Bell emphasizes. “Look down on no one unless you’re trying to lift them up.”

As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, we thank Norman Bell and all AARP Ohio volunteers for doing all they can to assist the 50+ generation and for communicating positivity to people of all ages.