What are some suggestions on meeting other middle aged people after serving?

2024-12-07T15:13:42-05:00

I've been having some difficulty adjusting after active duty because I didn't make the time to build my own social support network so I wanted to get some ideas from here.

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Dec 7 at 2024 4:25 PM

2024-12-07T16:25:05-05:00

1. Check out the veterans' organizations (VFW, American Legion, DAV, Team Red, White, Blue; etc)
2. Find an organization to volunteer with (local church, Red Cross, Samaritan's Purse)
3. Sign up for some classes at the community college or adult education

Response by SPC Michael Terrell made Dec 7 at 2024 6:35 PM

2024-12-07T18:35:57-05:00

What are your interests? Go to places that attract them, and start a conversation. Jon a church or Veteran's group. Just be out in public. IIf you are freindly and helpful, you'll find plenty of ftriends.

Response by SGM Mikel Dawson made Dec 8 at 2024 1:49 AM

2024-12-08T01:49:53-05:00

Talke up golf, I was surprised when I did I really liked it. Great way to get exercise and meet people. Best thing is when playing, you can start out on your own and many times end up playing a round with others. Bowling, there are many sports in which you can.
Are you a Christian, if so or if not, church is also a great place to meet people, plus help your inner self.
Like everyone else said, Veterans groups are also great ways to meet people. The big thing is you got to take the first step and get out there.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2024 5:43 AM

2024-12-08T05:43:41-05:00

I have to work on this myself.....some year....

Response by SP5 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 8 at 2024 9:45 AM

2024-12-08T09:45:27-05:00

Volunteer at an animal shelter. Even if the interpersonal contact is minimal, the emotional rewards are great for bringing happiness and hope to a shelter animal.

Response by SGT Lorenzo Nieto made Dec 9 at 2024 7:10 AM

2024-12-09T07:10:03-05:00

There’s a lot you can do, I tried different ways to make friends I live in Florida so I went to 55 + rv resort all walks of life if you’re into it a lot of veterans and none veterans. Hay just another thought.

Response by SSG Laureano Pabon made Dec 9 at 2024 10:04 AM

2024-12-09T10:04:14-05:00

You can always go to an American legion in your area

Response by SSG Carlos Madden made Dec 9 at 2024 4:55 PM

2024-12-09T16:55:28-05:00

First question is where are you located and what do you like to do with your free time? For the GWOT generation, I've found that we've gone away from the classic VSO's like VFW and Legion to find connections. Instead we've organized around local interest groups that are veteran specific. For example, Team Rubicon (for disaster relief), Team RWB (running/fitness), a number of gaming channels. I'm part of a hiking group in my area.

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Dec 10 at 2024 1:26 AM

2024-12-10T01:26:44-05:00

Veteran's groups are one good place to meet people and once in the Military went to a civilian Police Department where 95% of the guys there were veteran's which worked for Me. Getting involved in community organizations Yourself or helping with thing perhaps if You still have school aged children. A church may also be a good place to meet people. Talk to people and get to know them. Everything doesn't have to be organized just be friendly with others and You'll find new friends.

Response by LTC Tom Jones made Dec 10 at 2024 6:57 AM

2024-12-10T06:57:40-05:00

Lots of good advice on here so far, SSG Private RallyPoint Member. My first impulse is to suggest another people-oriented place that offers social as well as health benefits and that is the YMCA. Secondly, you might want to explore this article from "San Jose Today" for specific advice: Where to make friends in San Jose--"Here’s your guide to social clubs, public events, and more local ways to make pals in the great 408." --August 22, 2024 • Nicole Calande, Gregg Aronica. Sorry that I could not get the link to post.

Response by A1C Medrick "Rick" DeVaney made Dec 10 at 2024 10:48 AM

2024-12-10T10:48:10-05:00

I Just Hit 80, But For Most Of My Life I've Avoided Old People As They're Always Complaining About Something; Money, Health And Family Life & I Don't Live Like That.
So I Simply Try To Avoid The Older Folks, Of Which I'm A Member, By Ignoring The Age Factor And Associate With People With Better Attitudes Towards Life, They Just Happen To Be Younger.

But If You Still Wish To Find People In Your Age Bracket, You May Want To Check With Social Services In Your Area And ask Them If They Have An Organization You Can Contact,

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Making Friends After 65: Social Groups for Older Adults
http://www.carewell.com/resources/blog/making-friends...
May 22, 2023 · As a starting point, we’ve compiled a list of seven social groups for seniors. GetSetUp is an online learning community for folks 50 and older who want to obtain new skills, connect with others, and unlock new life experiences. The platform has thousands of classes on various topics, including art, business, cooking, and technology.

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