Why should I sign up with RSVP if I am already volunteering?
When you join RSVP, you joins hundreds of other volunteers to demonstrate the wealth of caring and sharing among seniors, It eliminates stereotypes about seniors no longer contributing to their communities. You become a part of the RSVP ‘family’ and receive our modest benefits, invitation to recognition events, DoveTales newsletter, aid to finding the perfect volunteer ‘job’, and help with any problems related to your volunteer opportunity.

As a member of RSVP I wish to volunteer with other organizations, of which organization do I consider myself a part?
BOTH. Belonging to both organizations just makes you a part of the larger volunteer community. Very often you see volunteers wearing more than one name badge. It’s okay to be part of many organizations. The most important thing is to stay active and help in the community where it is needed.

Will I be getting called to do things all the time?
Not if you prefer. We let you tell us how many or how few volunteer opportunities are the right amount for you. If you let us know your preference, we can do a better job of matching you to a potential volunteer opportunity.

Why do I have to keep track of my volunteer hours on a time sheet?
The time sheet allows us to keep accurate records of who is volunteering, what they are doing, and how much time they are spending at a particular volunteer site. We use this information for reporting to the federal, state and local government as well as to organizations from whom we receive funding. It is also a way to track community needs because the time sheets show us where volunteers are putting in their time. Our records show others about seniors and what an asset they are to their community, and it certainly tells a powerful story about all of you.

As a volunteer with the RSVP program, what counts?
Here are a few answers:
● transporting an elderly neighbor to the bank, grocery store, or to a doctor’s appointment
● performing home repairs for a disabled couple down the street whenever they need help
● driving Meals on Wheels routes
● helping neighborhood kids with their homework
● visiting someone in a nursing home
● being a teacher’s aid at the local school
● participating as a Board member for a nonprofit agency or serving on a City Commission
● serving meals at a funeral dinner
● sewing quilts for a fund-raising charity event
● assisting at an information desk
● being a host or hostess at the hospital waiting room.

Generally, if you volunteer for a nonprofit agency in the community or perform a service for which you do not get paid, it counts. Just put it on your time sheet, and if there are questions we will give you a call.