RSVP: You’re Invited to Volunteer
- Details
- Written by Pat Sicard & Lindsay Bennett-Jacobs, RSVP of the Pioneer Valley
The many benefits of being a volunteer with RVSP
RSVP of the Pioneer Valley is the volunteer center for people age 55 and over in the Pioneer Valley. Since 1973, we have provided individualized attention, matching volunteer interests, skills, experience and availability with the needs of area nonprofits. Currently, 640 RSVP volunteers serve at 57 volunteer sites in Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden County. New volunteers are referred to RSVP most often by satisfied current volunteers.
RSVP is a good choice for both volunteers and nonprofits, offering benefits beyond the expert matching services that create long-term satisfaction. RSVP’s successful connections have resulted in a 91% volunteer retention rate of one year or more. RSVP has over 300 volunteer positions in towns and cities throughout Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden counties that can accommodate most interests. RSVP staff members also share their volunteer management knowledge through workshops, presentations, and one-on-one mentorship of volunteer managers, increasing the region’s capacity to support volunteer programs. RSVP’s site partners benefit from many volunteers specializing in marketing, strategic planning, data management and more, who act as short-term consultants.
In addition to enjoying a personal connection to RSVP staff, volunteers receive news of events, sites, and opportunities each month through RSVP’s electronic newsletter. Volunteers who travel in order to volunteer may request mileage reimbursement of up to $15 per month. All volunteers are covered by supplemental general liability insurance that is free to them. Volunteers who serve 50 or more hours each year are invited to the Log Cabin in Holyoke each September for the Volunteer Recognition Luncheon to enjoy an exceptional meal, President’s Awards, a remarkable raffle, and the good company of other volunteers.
To get started as an RSVP volunteer, contact Pat Sicard, RSVP volunteer manager, at 413-387-4558 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
- Details
- Written by Pat Sicard & Lindsay Bennett-Jacobs, RSVP of the Pioneer Valley
What does it mean to volunteer?
Whether you would like to share your skills and experience to benefit local nonprofits, wish to make new friends, want to practice skills in preparation for entering the job market, or seek to help an organization that has helped you, volunteering is your ticket to fulfillment. RSVP of the Pioneer Valley is the volunteer connector for adults 55 and older who have a few hours a week or month to give a wide variety of supportive help that will have a powerful impact on the wellbeing of area residents. We offer the options, you make the choice that fits you best, and we facilitate the match.
A few examples of RSVP service include serving at food banks and survival centers, helping seniors with bill paying or insurance information, raising funds for special projects, visiting isolated seniors at their homes or in nursing homes, driving seniors to medical appointments, and assisting many agencies with special events.
Franklin County has a variety of interesting volunteer opportunities. At LifePath, this includes delivering Meals on Wheels, helping clients with bill paying, data entry, driving to medical appointments, and visiting residents of local nursing homes. The Erving Senior Center would welcome a volunteer Tai Chi instructor, a graphic artist and a computer instructor. For more engaging opportunities to challenge your interests and skills, contact Pat Sicard, RSVP of the Pioneer Valley Volunteer Manager, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at 413-387-4558 x1. Call now. Don’t wait.