Alexian Brothers Senior Neighbors

Programs: The federally sponsored retired and senior volunteer program ("rsvp") recruits, supports and recognizes senior volunteers on behalf of more than 40 not-for-profit organizations. A nationwide volunteer program, rsvp invites older adults to use their life experiences and skills to improve their communities. Rsvp offers "one-stop shopping" for anyone age 55 and over who wants to find challenging, rewarding, and significant volunteer opportunities in the chattanooga area. In 2011, rsvp volunteers served over 56,000 hours. Rsvp is also home to the senior leadership academy, a 9-month program designed to identify, develop and engage greater chattanooga's older adults, and provide opportunities for them to serve and strengthen their community responses to the health and housing needs of those we are called to serve.

the senior community service employment program ("scsep") sponsored by absn, places senior community participants (senior aides) in government and non-profit agencies throughout chattanooga and hamilton county, tn. Senior aides work up to 20 hours per week in a paid job training program. Scsep also provides information to the senior aides about employment opportunities for placement into unsubsidized jobs. Through job training assignments the senior aides gain confidence, enhance their incomes, learn valuable employment skills and support their communities. Scsep is funded under title v of the older americans act and serves low-income individuals who are 55 years of age or older. The program has two purposes: to provide useful community services and to foster individual economic self-sufficiency through training and job placement in unsubsidized employment. In 2011, scsep helped to fund over 100,000 hours in job training hours.

absn operates two senior centers located in hamilton county, tennessee. Both centers provide a variety of social, recreational and educational programs and activities designed to maintain and improve health and wellness for older adults. Participants are offered numerous opportunities for creative and artistic expression through performing and visual arts. Each center also provides opportunities for organized physical activity and exercise, health screenings and information related to nutrition and healthy lifestyles. Our programs help to maintain a social network and a sense of community for those at risk for isolation, depression and declining health. Absn also organizes the chattanooga district senior olympics and offers performing arts programs such as scenic city chorale and orchestra. In 2011, over 8,000 seniors participated in various programs provided by the senior centers.