What is RSVP?
Part of the National Senior Service Corps, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program provides opportunities for retired or semi-retired persons, age 55 or older to volunteer service in their community. RSVP matches volunteers to not-for-profit or government organizations that benefit from their experience and expertise. Our project, one of 23 in Illinois, serves Sangamon, Logan and Menard counties.
Who are RSVP Volunteers?
Americans over 55 have a lifetime of experience to share, and the desire to make a real difference in their world. These volunteers have managed households, been business owners and nurses, farmers and salespeople, artists and executives. Now they are ready to put their unique talents and expertise to work in their communities and enrich their own lives in the process. Their contributions of skills, knowledge and experience make a real difference to individuals, non-profits, faith-based and other community organizations throughout Central Illinois.
Where do RSVP Volunteers serve?
Volunteers deliver meals and make friendly visits to home-bound seniors, lead tours at museums and other tourist attractions, handle a variety of services for hospitals, schools, food pantries, offices, senior centers and more. RSVP serves 60 organizations in the Springfield area including:
- Daily Bread
- American Red Cross
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site
- Memorial Medical Center
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum
- St. John’s Hospital
- Illinois Department on Aging
- and others
How can I get involved?
RSVP offers several ways to get involved. Volunteers receive guidance and training so they can make a contribution that suits their talents, interests and availability. Think of what you can do when you give your time as a volunteer:
Help your community: Know that you are giving your time, talent, wisdom and experience to your community and neighbors who need you.
Help yourself: Through service, you can add to the quality and health of your life. Research indicates that volunteers enjoy better health, make new friendships, stay active and involved in the community and learn new skills.
Make a difference. Be part of a national movement to transform America through the involvement of its citizens. Call Judy Donath, Director of RSVP, at 217-528-4035 for details on how you can join this exciting program.