WHAT IS RSVP?

RSVP is one of the largest volunteer efforts in the nation—matching local problems with people age 55+ who are willing to help. RSVP volunteers choose how and where they want to serve, and how many hours they can serve—whatever their skills and interests lead them to do. RSVP volunteers do not need to be retired.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BEING AN RSVP VOLUNTEER?

In addition to the benefits that all citizens derive from living in a community where people are working to solve problems, RSVP volunteers know that they are a vital part of improving the quality of life in our city. Studies have also shown that people who volunteer are less likely to become ill and to maintain a positive outlook on life.
Other benefits include the services of a professional staff to match the interests of those looking for volunteer fulfillment with agency needs.
Additional benefits include annual and on-going recognition and supplemental insurance while on assignment.

WHAT DO RSVP VOLUNTEERS DO?

RSVP volunteers provide hundreds of community services through participating non-profit agencies, schools, and government programs. Volunteers often elect to continue in their professional fields—providing consultant services to non-profit agencies, legal and consumer advice to low-income families, supplemental nursing services to the frail elderly. Volunteers may also pick an assignment for the new challenge it offers—producing plays for children on the dangers of drug abuse, assisting the police department, or teaching at the zoo. Whatever a person's skill, experience, interest, or goal, it can be put to good use for the benefit of the community and the volunteer.

RSVP VOLUNTEER ASSIGNMENTS INCLUDE:

Regularly scheduled assignments at schools, hospitals, environmental agencies, Sheriff's office and more.

RSVP Tale Tellers:  Read to Duval County Public School pre-kindergarten and kindergarten children who come from disadvantaged families.  Taletellers are provided with training, reading techniques, child development, cultural diversity and other topics that increase their effectiveness.

SWAT (Senior Workers Available Today): short-term assignments- bulk mailings, staffing health fairs, assisting with special events/activities, etc. 

CSPG (community service project groups): make knitted/crocheted/sewn items for children, disabled, others in need. Can be done at home.

Floor Captain Groups: residents of senior apartments who work with management to ensure safety of building and residents.

Senior Centers: assist with activities in one of the 19 centers throughout Duval County.

Advisory Council

Advisory Council members offer guidance and support to the RSVP staff. They represent a cross-section of the community and provide a valuable link to the citizens and agencies of Duval County.

The Advisory Council meets monthly and members serve on one or more committees.

RSVP is sponsored and funded by the National Senior Service Corps, Corporation for National Service with matching funds from the City of Jacksonville, Recreation and Community Services Department, Adult Services Division.