Ami Raime

I came to the United States from Singapore in 2001. Where I came from, I was taught to survive, so volunteering did not come to mind. But now, at age 58, I want to embrace the encore idea.

Recently, I was introduced to the Encore.org organization by a friend. It has shown me the importance of being able to offer my services to make a difference in my community. I am beginning to understand the need to “help those who cannot help themselves”.

I have a good job now in the insurance industry, but it may not last forever. As I consider what I might do in my encore, I think of my skills as an artist (I have a listed few of my paintings on Etsy).

My idea is to donate some of them to a local organization that raises funds for a good cause. My first was to the RAIN fund organized by the Kitsap County Association of Realtors. I want to develop this idea as my encore, volunteering my services through art schools, arts organizations or even art events.

I plan to continue donating some of my other paintings, hopefully to the Habitat for Humanity organization. Some of the houses they build can feature my paintings on the walls or they can use it to auction to raise money to buy more materials.

The paintings may make a small difference to me, but the organization that has received them was thankful and appreciative.