The Bluebills are a group of Boeing (and McDonnell Douglas and Rockwell) retirees and their spouses who do volunteer work with local agencies.  There are three chapters and a central  leadership operating in Western Washington State, each supported by the Boeing Company through the Seattle based central leadership group.   We have the opportunity to generate work/assistance programs and also have access to surplus merchandise and books for distribution  to various supporting agencies.

Just as the historic Bluebill airplane was the first aircraft built by a company that helps bring people together, today's Bluebills are uniting Boeing retirees in efforts to improve the quality of life in our communities.

WHAT DO WE DO?

Community Projects
Working with local social and community health organizations Bluebills can provide volunteers for a host of activities.  A prime interest is providing maintenance and modifications to housing, that allow the elderly to remain living safely and comfortably in their homes.  The Habitat for Humanity, providing housing for those who can not afford their own homes, is heavily supported by the Bluebills.  Through a group called the Busy B's, we have volunteers who are always at work making/refurbishing dolls, toys, clothing and other items for those who would not otherwise have them.

Surplus Goods Distribution
Boeing provides warehouse space and transportation for new, surplus items provided by manufacturers.  The items are received, sorted and stored in Seattle.  Each chapter is provided with a portion of these goods which are, in turn,  provided to various supporting agencies for distribution to the needy.

Book Program
With the help of Boeing, who provide warehouse space and shipping, the Bluebills are able to obtain truckloads of new and surplus books.  The books are unloaded, sorted and stored in a Seattle warehouse.  They are available to schools and other educational groups.  Each chapter provide schools in their area with access to these books.

Education
Many members have a special interest in education.  In addition to tutoring we are work with the local schools to develop special programs aimed at exposing fourth, fifth and sixth graders to scientific principles through experimentation particularly through the  "A World in motion" and "Future Scientist and Engineers of America" programs.

Social and Internal Helping Hands
A Michigan study of 2,700 people over a 10 year span found that doing regular volunteer work dramatically increased life expectancy and affects better health.  Volunteering to help others, enhances ones own self image and quality of life.  Aside from the social values of working with pears and recipients, we Bluebills have also in place two internal helping groups called the Solitairies and the RAP.
 The Solitairies are a group of  Boeing retirees or spouses of Boeing employee/retirees who are unattached for any reason, who schedule outings and group activities together.  If interested in more information and/or joining, contact us.
 The RAP (Retiree Assistance Program) team are a group who maintain a list of Boeing retirees and families who could benefit from the outreach of a friend. If you would like to share a little happiness with someone and feel better about yourself in the process, or if you know a retiree who could use some help contact the RAP team.