Retired senior volunteer program expands to Scott Co.

The Retired Senior Volunteer Program of Cape Girardeau and Scott counties is expanding the Volunteer Intergenerational Center into the Scott County area, effective now. VIC previously existed only in Cape Girardeau County.

RSVP and VIC recruits volunteers of all ages in order to help expand services in not-for-profit agencies who are struggling with today's social issues and problems. These agencies connect volunteers and resources so that they may work as effectively and efficiently as possible to create positive change for our communities in Cape Girardeau County.

RSVP has been providing volunteer services in Cape Girardeau and Scott Counties for 34 years. RSVP volunteers, 55 and older, strive to enhance quality of life and enrich society.

VIC was established in 2002. Many not-for-profit agencies in Cape Girardeau and Scott County depend on VIC volunteers. Currently these programs serve 119 agencies with 941 volunteers. These programs have generated a total of 70,545 hours of volunteer service.

Adopt-A-Grandparent is a new initiative both programs will implement, offering a new volunteer opportunity to encourage families or individuals to meet the needs of companionship and compassion to residents at nursing homes, often alone and isolated. The plan is to enhance the lives of seniors with an outcome of empowered, healthy people.

RSVP and VIC, through volunteer projects, explore service, civic participation and social issues to fulfill the goal of deepening human understanding and increasing civic action.

Those interested in becoming a volunteer may contact the RSVP/VIC office at 335-7555, 887-3664 or 471-4584 or visit www.vicrsvp.org. New volunteer opportunities are added often.

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133