Nearly 80 and Still Volunteering: Petropavl Pensioner Helps Those in Need

A volunteer movement involving older residents is gaining momentum in Petropavl. Pensioners are giving their time to help people in need, and one of the city’s most active volunteers is Gennady Yazykov. Nearly 80, he spends his time helping local residents, taking part in community clean-ups and planting trees, 24KZ reports.

Gennady Yazykov may be approaching 80, but retirement has not slowed him down. Well known in Petropavl for his volunteer work, he regularly helps elderly residents with everyday tasks around their homes.

Asiya Safina, Petropavl resident:

– Volunteers have been helping me for several years. Whenever I call, they are always ready to help, especially him. He can fix just about anything. He repaired my fence and is fixing something else now. He also helps bring in coal and firewood and tidy up the garden.

Yazykov is willing to take on almost any task. He spent more than 50 years in the construction industry, working on residential buildings and public facilities across Petropavl. Retirement has not stopped him from remaining actively involved in his local community.

Gennady Yazykov, Petropavl resident:

– We take part in all Taza Kazakhstan initiatives. We clean up yards and plant trees. A few days ago, there was a citywide clean-up, and I personally planted five trees to help make Petropavl cleaner and more beautiful. We also often help elderly residents tidy their yards or mow the grass.

For Yazykov, age is no barrier to helping others. As long as he is able to lend a hand, he says there will always be someone who could use his support.

Authors: Nurgul Akhmetova, Kuanysh Kazbekov