What is RSVP?
RSVP is a volunteer program for adults at or nearing retirement age. RSVP helps individuals age 55 and older put their skills and life experience to work for their communities. RSVP volunteers serve from a few hours to forty hours a week.
RSVP can place you where your abilities are maximized. Volunteers serve in a wide range of areas from tutoring reading in schools to delivering meals on wheels. However they choose to serve, RSVP volunteers meet critical community needs.
In Kansas, RSVP is a network of sixteen projects utilizing the experience, skills, talents, interests and creativity of 6,488 adults age 55 and over. Without monetary compensation, RSVP volunteers are committed to sharing their life experiences to help address critical local problems in the areas of education, public safety, the environment, health and other human needs.
Why Do RSVP Volunteers Get Involved?
Some people feel a lack of productivity when they no longer have a regular work site or schedule. RSVP helps seniors stay active and involved. Studies show that seniors who volunteer live longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Why should I volunteer?
During year 2009, 349 RSVP volunteers contributed 37,130 hours of service in Northeast Kansas. Those hours, multiplied by Federal minimum wage, can be compared to a $269,193 donation to our communities.
Where can I volunteer?
In our communities, there are many people, organizations, activities and agencies who can use the knowledge and skills that older Americans have accumulated through years of living. RSVP encourages seniors to share their experiences by matching them to the needs of their communities.
What Benefits Do RSVP Members Earn?
RSVP provides the following services at no cost to the volunteers:
· Assistance with transportation or reimbursement for mileage, if needed;
· A quarterly newsletter keeping you up-to-date on volunteer activities and
opportunities;
· Excess auto, personal and liability insurance coverage while on volunteer assignments;
· An annual RSVP Recognition Dinner and Fall Luncheon;
· Other acknowledgment for a job well done.
