RSVP: Program Seeks 100 Citizens ages 55 and Older to Volunteer
The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program is returning to Lewis County and recruiting new volunteers. The program provides citizens age 55 and older an opportunity to volunteer for organizations that work with United Way and other non-profits around the area.
“These people from this generation have a strong sense of character and values to share,” said RSVP Coordinator Jennifer Thompson.
RSVP returned to Lewis County last fall, after the program’s 36-year-old director died and 20 percent of its offices were relinquished.
“We had all these seniors that didn’t know what to do,” Thompson said.
United Way of Thurston, Mason and Lewis Counties got together to bring RSVP back. “RSVP went away in Lewis County and now it’s back. We can really kick this thing off,” said Debbie Campbell, executive director for United Way of Lewis County.
United Way aims to find 100 new volunteers locally. They will match a volunteer’s area of interest to an appropriate area of assistance to address needs in the community. “The goal is to find something that is enriching,” Thompson said.
In addition to the satisfaction of community involvement, the program provides benefits including supplemental medical, dental, vision and liability insurance for participants while they are volunteering. RSVP also provides mileage reimbursement for travel.
Organizations can also apply to host RSVP. “We’re trying to encourage nonprofits to open their doors,” Thompson said.
Thompson said the program looks at their role after a disaster and can accept money to distribute to the community.
“After the floods, we needed volunteers ready to hit the ground running,” Campbell said.
Those interested in RSVP can call United Way of Lewis County at 748-8100 or visit www.lewiscountyuw.com.