Retired Party officials find new roles in community work

The Aunt Tao Studio in the Donghe community – in the Dingtao district of Heze City in East China's Shandong province – was filled with laughter and joy recently, as retired officials from the Taocun Jinhui Volunteer Service Team conducted psychological counseling for elderly residents.

Things get underway at the Aunt Tao Studio in Dingtao district. [Photo by Li Li for chinadaily.com.cn]

With the aim of overcoming loneliness among elderly people – particularly those whose children are often away due to work – the community established the Aunt Tao Studio.

It's where 60-year-old psychotherapist Chen Guimei and her team provide regular professional courses to help alleviate the worries and difficulties of seniors.

Through activities such as games and handicrafts, the elderly are encouraged to actively participate and feel valued and cared for.

Simultaneously, they've invited to reminisce about happy moments and achievements, so fostering a sense of hope and optimism.

The community members are said to greatly appreciate the services being provided by the Taocun Jinhui Volunteer Service Team. They say that by simply sharing their everyday lives and concerns with the teachers, they no longer feel troubled and find clarity in their minds.

In order to boost the leadership of retired cadre Party organizations, Dingtao district has established the Taocun Jinhui Volunteer Service System.

It consists of 34 volunteer service teams that offer psychological counseling, promote civility and provide agricultural technology assistance, among others.

Retired Party officials are being encouraged to make the most of their unique advantages – and serve as Party-building guides, civility ambassadors and assistants in the wider industrial revitalization – to boost their sense of fulfillment and happiness. (Edited by Jin Yongxue)