by Karen Flores, J.D., Hotline Attorney

The Corporation for National & Community Service established the Senior Corps agency for people age 55 and over who want to volunteer in their community and provide aid to people in need. Previously, we featured the Foster Grandparent Program and the Senior Companion Program.  Another program which operates through the Senior Corps is the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).

RSVP is one of the largest volunteer programs in the nation with nearly 500,000 volunteers age 55 and over. There are a variety of service opportunities for the volunteers, including organizing neighborhood watch programs, renovating homes, teaching English to immigrants, or assisting victims of natural disasters. Community service is provided through various locally sponsored RSVP projects. Volunteers’ skills, life experiences, and interests are matched with specific community needs. The RSVP program offers training, orientation, and supplemental insurance for its volunteers. The number of service hours can range from a few hours a month to nearly full-time.

Seniors who volunteer with this program not only help their community, they also personally benefit from meeting new people, staying active and involved, and doing activities they enjoy. You can find more information on the RSVP program at www.nationalservice.gov.