Retired Senior Volunteer Program [RSVP]

What is the SLV RSVP?

The Retired Senior Volunteer Program in the San Luis Valley helps individuals 55 and older put their skills and life experiences to work a second time, a sort of “been there, done that and now I’ll show you how to do it yourself” re-investment in the community.  “Seniors are a valuable, sometimes overlooked resource offering the advantage of a broad perspective on life,” according to RSVP director Patt Morgan-Lloyd.  “Seniors also have skills and work habits developed through decades as productive workers.”
RSVP has been a part of the Valley for over 35 years now, matching problems to be solved with people willing to help.  Today, more than 450,000 seniors participate in RSVP nationally, making it one of the largest volunteer efforts in the nation.  You can be a part of this family of caring volunteers solving problems and bringing our communities together.

What do RSVP volunteers do?

Just about everything!  From tutoring and mentoring students and renovating homes to planting community gardens and staffing museums, senior volunteers are the backbone of many non-profit organizations and community organizations.  However they choose to serve, RSVP volunteers meet community needs and make a lasting difference.

Why do seniors get involved?

Some people feel a lack of productivity when they no longer have a regular work site and schedule.  RSVP helps seniors stay active and involved, appreciated and acknowledged.  People of any age “need to be needed,” and, if they find they have time on their hands, retired seniors find an outlet for their energy and creativity through volunteer service.
Many RSVP volunteers have lived in their communities a long time, and they see volunteer service as a way to give back; new arrivals quickly make new friends and develop new interests through volunteering.  Studies show that seniors who volunteer live longer, healthier and happier lives.

How do I qualify to be an RSVP volunteer?

You must be 55 years or older.  That’s it.  There are no other requirements.  We do expect you to enjoy your volunteer service and ask that you report your activities and hours to us regularly and maybe tell us stories about your adventures in the world of volunteering, but, other than that, we’re glad to have you as a member without consideration to education, income or experience.

Where do I sign up?

You can call or visit one of the RSVP offices located at 8745 County Rd 9 South, Alamosa CO (in the SLV Comprehensive Community Mental Health Center) or 402 Fourth Ave., Monte Vista, CO (located in the SLV Mental Health Center branch office). 
The RSVP director/Alamosa County Outreach is Patt Morgan-Lloyd, 719-587-5610; Carolyn Davis is the Tri-County Outreach coordinator, 719-852-5186, and Norm Crawford is the Conejos/Costilla Counties Outreach coordinator, 719-376-2520.
SLV RSVP is funded by a grant from the Corporation for National Service and through donations by county governments.  It is sponsored locally by the San Luis Valley Community Mental Health Center. 

For more information about RSVP in the San Luis Valley, please contact Patt Morgan-Lloyd at pattl@slvmhc.org or call 719-587-5610.