My Nonprofit Reviews

I have been volunteering with RSVP for 7 years, and, today, I am just as motivated by, and excited about, the opportunities it offers me as I was when I started with this wonderful organization. The administrative staff is extremely welcoming and accommodating, and does everything they can to make each volunteer's experience a rewarding one. I am always so proud to let people know about RSVP and the amazing "little secret" that it is. Unfortunately, too few people in the community are aware of the help they could receive through the many outreach programs RSVP offers (medicare counseling, telephone reassurance program, computer refurbishing and donation, programs on senior health concerns, ...to name a few) . The staff is enthusiastic and always ready to assist in any way the can when someone calls inquiring about the services offered. I am extremely grateful that I stumbled upon RSVP, and I hope that this "gem" will be uncovered by many, many more in the near future - it is truly a treasure.

Upon retiring, I knew that I wanted to spend my many available hours "giving back" by volunteering. I just wasn't sure in what capacity I wanted to do that, and what specific organizations in my community were in need of volunteers. I heard a colleague mention RSVP in a passing conversation, and decided to check them out online. I was very pleasantly surprised by the number and variety of organizations that RSVP is affiliated with. I met with some of their volunteer coordinators and became immediately drawn in by the warmth, kindness and commitment of the staff. I knew I had to be a part of it!!

I have been actively volunteering with RSVP for over 5 years, participating in their Telephone Reassurance Program. It is a very rewarding and meaningful program and I look forward to the weekly contacts I make with seniors in the community. About 18 months ago, RSVP also connected me with the New York Blood Center, and I have been volunteering with them a few times a week on a consistent basis.

RSVP has become a big part of my retired life, and I am extremely grateful for the purpose it have given to my days. Not only have I been able to fill my time with activities that make me feel good, and fill that need I had to "give back", I have also met some of the most amazing and caring individuals who offer their talent and time to bettering our community.

After retiring, I was eager to find a way to volunteer in my community that would make me feel like I was truly "giving back". I was connected with the Telephone Reassurance program at RSVP, and, years later, I continue to be excited about making my weekly calls and reaching out with a friendly hello to seniors in our area who are comforted by knowing someone is going to be checking in on them on a regular basis. I honestly believe I get more out of this experience than those I call.
The staff and administration at the RSVP office are extremely caring, committed and professional, and made it very easy for me to decide that I wanted to give even more of my time to their organization. With the help of their volunteer coordinators, I was able to connect with the NY Blood Center, and now also volunteer at local blood drives a few times a month.
RSVP is an incredible asset to the community, and provides so many diverse opportunities for those who are looking to keep active after retirement. The staff guides you through the available options and makes sure that you are happy with your choice. They are always there to assist, to recommend, to problem-solve, and to reinforce. They take a keen interest in each of their volunteers, as well as their clients. I feel blessed that I found this organization and the amazing people that keep it going.