United Way Awarded RSVP Grant

United Way of Madison County has been awarded a $44,563 2010 RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) grant for Madison County by the Corporation for National and Community Service. The grant is renewable annually through December 31, 2012.

Established in 1971 and now one of the largest senior volunteer organizations in the nation, RSVP engages nearly 450,000 people age 55 and older in a diverse range of volunteer activities. Volunteers organize neighborhood watch programs, tutor children, renovate homes, teach English to immigrants, assist victims of natural disasters, and serve their communities in many other ways. RSVP volunteers choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments ranging from a few hours to 40 hours per week. RSVP is open to all people age 55 and over.

RSVP is part of Senior Corps, a network of national and community service programs that each year supports the engagement of nearly 500,000 Americans age 55 and older in service to meet critical needs in education, the environment, public safety, homeland security, and other areas. Senior Corps is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service, which also administers AmeriCorps and Learn and Serve America. The mission of the Corporation is to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering. Together with USA Freedom Corps, the Corporation is working to foster a culture of citizenship, service, and responsibility in America. For more information, visit www.nationalservice.gov. To learn more about RSVP, visit www.seniorcorps.gov or call 800-424-8867 or TTY 800-833-3722.