July 01, 1985 by Evelyn Varney

Dear Retiree,

Before I retired and came to the USCWM in April 19841 told many of my friends that I wished I were twins or triplets so that I might fill more of the 'needy niches" I knew of here in this "Mecca" of mission activity. Now I am saying that I wish I were quints! Some posts are completely unmanned. There is scarcely a staff worker who could not use someone to work beside him or her. Staff members are supposed to be taking courses at our university to better prepare themselves for overseas service or to make them better World Christians, but for many this expectation is postponed due to the demands of urgent tasks.

Then I hear that some of you friends who art about to retire, or have just done so, are going through the trauma of feeling "put on the shelf' or no longer needed in this fast paced society. With life expectancy steadily rising well above the "three score and ten", many are facing the often automatic retirement policies of their organization with genuine dread, disappointment, anger, or a feeling of being cut off in your prime.

For you, as a Christian, this could be the "frosting on the cake", the time of your life when you can be the most productive for the Lord. Have you sometimes wished that you could have been an overseas missionary? ...or perhaps you've been one. You've doubtless heard that the greater Los Angeles area has literally millions of people who speak over ICC) languages. You can nab shoulders with ethnic communities right here in Pasadena while also helping at the Center. If you've done anything during the past fifty years, from raising a family to being a company executive, we can put you to work the moment you arrive. Here are just a few examples:   If you're a mother (or grandmother!) who's experiencing the "empty nest syndrome", there are literally dozens of children (with more being born almost monthly!) of young staff members at USCWM who love to come to the Extended Family Co op two or three mornings a week (limited to one day right now because of a lack of workers). While they play and learn many things, their mothers share a little of the work along with their husbands. (See the story on page 23 about "Nana", Mildred Darrow, with whom I live.)

Men and women with skills and experience can contribute greatly. Many staff members are young and inexperienced, often heading for overseas service, which means that we have a much higher turnover rate than the normal business. For example, a just completed recording studio waits for more technicians or hobbyists to help produce audiovisuals.

Pastors who can disciple, counsel, or introduce the USCWM to their constituencies can have a fulfilling ministry both near and far, in church relations or as staff pastor.

Anyone who types or who can do accounting or bookkeeping would be welcomed by nearly any of our departments or agencies. If you know your "A B C's' and can do simple filing, you'll find a welcome mat at many doors. Can you stuff or address envelopes? Willing workers in this area, too, would be a tremendous help.

Is there any facility more important on a university campus than the library? Our librarian is leaving to pursue further Bible study in preparation for overseas service, hopefully in China. Her assistant is gone for the summer and the student help just graduated. What to do?

Since folk here live on limited incomes, the "boutique" (room full of give away clothes and miscellaneous items) is a popular place, but badly needs someone to take the responsibility for keeping it in order.

Rosie, I'm thinking of the many years you've faithfully worked at the telephone company. As you near retirement, wouldn't you like to take over one of the switchboards, either here at the Center or across the street at the William Carey International University?

Have you been in the construction business or have just puttered around as a "weekend carpenter", as they call "do it yourself buffs in Japan (where I spent 34 years)? You'll find plenty of projects, large and small, to keep you busy here. (See page 27 of the April June issue of Mission Frontiers for more details on this.)

The list could goon almost endlessly, but I think by now you should have the picture: we need HELP of almost any kind from A to Z and would welcome YOU to help fill that shortage.

Perhaps you've thought you couldn't afford a winter in southern California. Since we live a missionary lifestyle, you can get by here on less income than you'd think. For short time volunteers, dormitory residency means that you don't need to bring much with you. For those who can stay longer, a small campus apartment or house may become available in due time and at less than market prices. If your pep is limited, you need not work more than 20 hours weekly.

There are many "bonuses" we enjoy, such as access to a steady stream of outstanding speakers from around the world. Many fine cultural events occur nearby, some without charge. Excellent evangelical churches abound ...along with the much publicized cults which add to the spiritual battle and challenge. It's great to be in such an exciting place and on the cutting edge of missions. You can be a part of it. Write us for for more details.