SENIOR CORPS 1 August 2008
Posted by Service Officer on July 31st, 2008
Americans over 55 have a lifetime of experience to share, and the potential to make a real difference in their world. They’ve managed households, been business owners and nurses, farmers and salespeople, artists and executives. Those who now have time can put their unique talents and expertise to work in their communities, and enrich their own lives in the process. Senior Corps connects today’s over 55s with the people and organizations that need them most. It helps seniors to become mentors, coaches or companions to people in need, or contribute their job skills and expertise to community projects and organizations. Conceived during John F. Kennedy’s presidency, Senior Corps currently links more than 500,000 Americans to service opportunities. Their contributions of skills, knowledge, and experience make a real difference to individuals, nonprofits, and faith-based and other community organizations throughout the United States. Senior Corps offers several ways to get involved. Volunteers receive guidance and training so they can make a contribution that suits their talents, interests, and availability. Following are programs in need of volunteers:
• The Foster Grandparent Program connects volunteers age 60 and over with children and young people with exceptional needs. Volunteers mentor, support, and help some of the most vulnerable children in the United States. For more on this program refer to www.seniorcorps.org/about/programs/fg.asp.
• The Senior Companion Program brings together volunteers age 60 and over with adults in their community who have difficulty with the simple tasks of day-to-day living. Companions help out on a personal level by assisting with shopping and light chores, interacting with doctors, or just making a friendly visit. For more on this program refer to www.seniorcorps.org/about/programs/sc.asp.
• RSVP connects volunteers age 55 and over with service opportunities in their communities that match their skills and availability. From building houses to immunizing children, from enhancing the capacity of non-profit organizations to improving and protecting the environment, RSVP volunteers put their unique talents to work to make a difference. For more on this program refer to www.seniorcorps.org/about/programs/rsvp.asp.
Senior Corps is a program of the Corporation for National and Community Service, an independent federal agency created to connect Americans of all ages and backgrounds with opportunities to give back to their communities and their nation. For information on joining one of the Senior Corps programs call 1-800-424-8867, email help@joinseniorservice.org, or visit www.getinvolved.gov. [Source: AARP About Senior Living Sharon O’Brien article 29 Jul 08 ++]
