Retirement is often seen as the finish line—but for many retired first responders, it’s the start of a new chapter. After years of serving others, stepping away from the uniform can feel like losing a piece of your identity. So, for many FPPA retirees, finding new purpose is a crucial component of their retirement plan.

According to the American Psychological Association, meaningful activity in retirement can improve mental health and overall life satisfaction, leading to lower rates of depression and cognitive decline. Not surprisingly, one of the most common ways retirees rediscover purpose is actually returning to work—but not in the traditional sense. For many, part-time or flexible roles offer the perfect balance of staying busy, pursuing passions, and maintaining a sense of mission. In this post, we’ll explore the idea of finding purpose and community in retirement by rejoining the workforce.

Why Work After Retirement?

According to T. Rowe Price, 20% of retirees are working at least part-time , and not just for a paycheck. Staying active through work can:

• Boost mental health: Engaging in purposeful tasks helps maintain cognitive sharpness and reduces feelings of isolation
• Strengthen social connections: Working part-time keeps you connected to others, fostering camaraderie and belonging
• Provide structure: A regular work schedule offers routine without the stress of full-time commitments
• Make healthcare affordable/accessible: Many employers offer health insurance benefits to part-time staff, which can be helpful for FPPA Members who retire before reaching Medicare eligibility

The Appeal of Part-Time and Flexible Roles

Part-time work offers freedom and flexibility—allowing you to stay active while enjoying retirement. The best roles align with your passions and values, not just your bank account. Consider opportunities such as teaching safety or CPR courses or mentoring young recruits or volunteering in community safety programs. These roles let you leverage your experience while making a tangible impact.

How to Find the Right Opportunity

Start by asking yourself:

• What excites me? Teaching, mentoring, or community service?
• What skills do I want to use? Leadership, crisis management, or communication?

Then:

• Explore local nonprofits, schools, and community centers
• Check online platforms for flexible and part-time roles
• Attend FPPA retiree networking events for connections and ideas. Our annual retiree luncheon takes place each summer—keep an eye on your inbox for an invitation!

Continuing the Mission

Your career as a first responder may have ended, but your impact doesn’t have to. If you’re searching for ways to stay active while finding connection and fulfillment, consider part-time or flexible work. Remember, retirement isn’t necessarily about slowing down—for many, it’s about finding new ways to make a difference.