Zhang also has given violin concerts at Golden West, "It is fun because the residents enjoy it and they are less critical of my playing," said Zhang. His appearance at Golden West is an event that the residents look forward to most weekends.

"I thought by volunteering at Golden West, I would learn from the residents and they would learn from me," said Zhang. He chose to volunteer at Golden West because he feels that it helps keep the residents company and, "It is a fun and easy way to do community service," said Zhang.

Zhang also believes he has benefited from his volunteering at Golden West. "I think by volunteering at Golden West, I am able to communicate more with different age groups and I have also gained new knowledge," he said.

"What I enjoy most about volunteering is the time I get to spend with the residents, I just enjoy the company," said Zhang. He gets pleasure from the time he spends having conversations with the residents he visits about the past, present, and future. He finds that they have a lot to offer and should be listened to by other people.

"I enjoy volunteering because I enjoy doing something out of the realm of usual activities such as watching television, going to movies, and hiking, it's something different." He thinks that doing something productive with his time, such as volunteering will both do good for himself and the residents at Golden West. Zhang said, "Volunteering can only be good for a person, and can never have any harm."

For information about volunteering with the Golden West Senior Residence or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904, or go to our Volunteer Central.