Retired Senior Volunteer Program
What is RSVP?
RSVP is the Retired Senior Volunteer Program. It is part of the Corporation for National & Community Service and is sponsored locally by Sacramento County Department of Human Assistance. RSVP also is supported by the all-volunteer Friends of RSVP board. More than 600 seniors in Sacramento County are active volunteers in this program.
Who can volunteer?
Anyone over 55 years of age and willing to share their lifetime of experience is eligible. Seniors are vital contributing members of our community who can make a difference in the lives of others by sharing their talents and experience.
What kind of work is done?
Volunteers may choose from a wide variety of activities including tutoring children or adults; serving as docents for cultural events, nature centers or museums; providing support services at health centers; giving clerical support or consultant services; making friendly visits to the isolated elderly; preparing, serving, or distributing food, to name just a few.
Where do volunteers work?
Volunteers work in a variety of community settings such as schools, senior centers, TV/Radio stations, libraries, hospitals, nature centers, sheriff's service stations, food distribution centers, etc. In Sacramento there are 140 different public and nonprofit agencies enrolled with RSVP from which a volunteer may choose an assignment.
Are benefits provided?
All RSVP volunteers are covered by supplemental ACCIDENT as well as PERSONAL and AUTOMOBILE LIABILITY INSURANCE while traveling directly to and from, and participating in activities. A bimonthly newsletter, the SPOTLIGHT, keeps volunteers informed and provides a sampling of current volunteer opportunities. An annual Recognition Event honors all RSVP volunteers.
How can I volunteer?
There is no fee for participating in RSVP. Seniors receive an orientation by a staff person about the Retired Senior Volunteer Program and its benefits and policies. They will then help the senior find volunteer activities in their areas of interest.