retired seniors volunteer program (RSVP)
Promoting volunteerism among adults 55 and over, while encouraging their interests, using their abilities and mobilizing them to meet the most pressing needs in our region.
More than 470 senior citizens in our region have responded and joined the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. They are part of the one of the largest volunteer efforts in the nation and are engaged in a diverse range of activities. RSVP volunteers serve in a diverse range of nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and faith-based groups. Among their many activities, some mentor at-risk youth, tutor elementary school age children, help plan and organize special events, oversee Neighborhood Watch programs, assist victims of natural disaster, or lend their business skills to community groups that provide critical social services.
RSVP is part of Senior Corps, a network of national service programs that provides Americans age 55 and older the opportunity to apply their life experience to meeting community needs. The purpose is to enrich the lives of older adults through significant community service that is tailored to meet the needs of each area. Volunteers choose when and where they want to serve. They are interviewed and matched with the most compatible locations.
Eligibility
RSVP is open to any person age 55 and older. Most volunteers are paired with local organizations that are already helping to meet community needs. Time commitments range from a few hours a month to almost full time, with four hours a week being an average amount. There are no restrictions based on education, income or experience. Anyone who wants to feel useful, needed and appreciated will profit from becoming part of the RSVP network.
Volunteer Benefits
RSVP volunteers are not paid, but sponsoring organizations may reimburse them for some costs incurred during service. RSVP provides appropriate volunteer insurance coverage, and volunteers receive pre-service orientation and in-service training from the agency or organization where they are placed.
Top Five Places of Local RSVP Service
Senior Citizen Centers
Schools
Parkersburg Police Department
Jackson General Hospital
American Red Cross
The 470 local RSVP volunteers give approximately 56,000 hours annually to help others. The impact made by these volunteers on their communities is immeasurable. As for themselves, the gain of self worth and independence is also incalculable. If you’d like to begin serving with RSVP, please contact us!