You've gained a lifetime of experience. Now is the time to put your skills

and talents to good use by volunteering through RSVP.

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is a nationwide program sponsored by the National Senior Corps under the Corporation for National and Community Service. It was established in 1971 under the Older Americans Act to be a liaison between the volunteers and their communities and to provide free supplemental accident insurance for the volunteer at the workplace and to and from their workplace. 

RSVP is America's largest volunteer network for people age 55 and over. Join RSVP and you join nearly 500,000 volunteers across the country who are tackling tough issues in their communities.

The purpose of the program is to reach local retirees and seniors and offer them an opportunity to help others by contributing their time, expertise, and knowledge through volunteer service. Retired and senior adults, age 55 or older, who are interested in volunteering are eligible to participate. There are no dues or fees to join the RSVP program.

RSVP offers a full range of volunteer opportunities with local and national organizations. With RSVP, you choose how and where you want to serve. You choose the amount of time you want to give. And you choose whether you want to draw on your skills or develop new ones. In short, you find the opportunity that's right for you.

Some frequently asked questions about the RSVP program include the following:

1.  Why join RSVP when I already volunteer?

You don't actually volunteer for RSVP, you become a member of a national organization that includes over 500,000 volunteers.  By joining RSVP, you become covered with free supplemental accident & life insurance with no cost involved to become a member or receive the insurance.  You receive a quarterly newsletter which details volunteer opportunities and activities that go on with RSVP and in the community.  You are also invited to attend our annual Volunteer Recognition Awards Luncheon.

2.    How many hours do I have to volunteer to remain an active member?

You have to volunteer one hour every three months to remain active. This keeps you on our mailing list for our newsletter and volunteer recognitions.  It also keeps your insurance in effect.

3.    What if I become sick and can't volunteer for three months or longer?

If you will notify the RSVP office we will place you on our inactive list and you will continue to receive the newsletter.  When you are ready to volunteer again, just call us and we will return you to the active list.

4.    What is a Volunteer station?

Any place where RSVP members volunteer is called a volunteer station.   It can be any public or private non-profit organization or health agency.  The volunteer station must sign an RSVP Memorandum of Understanding form which lists RSVP policies.  They are also required to submit all volunteer hours on the form we provide them. 

5.    Can I volunteer at more than one station?

You can volunteer at as many stations as you want to.  However, we record your hours for each station separately and require a signature at all stations.

And remember: When you volunteer, you're not just helping others-you're helping yourself. Volunteering leads to new discoveries and new friends. Plus, studies show that volunteering helps you live longer and promotes a positive outlook on life.