By John McAlpine
RSVP Program Recruiter
Sponsored by Catholic Community Services, RSVP is America’s largest volunteer network for persons older than 55 and the only program where the collective contribution of the senior volunteer is recorded. Volunteer opportunities exist all over Snohomish County. No matter where you live we can probably match you with a job.
Volunteer transportation: Modern-day life does not make it easy for people without personal transportation. Coupled with the fact Snohomish County has large rural areas, getting to doctor appointments and other essential errands is challenging. If you have an insured, safe (lights, brakes and horn all in working condition) vehicle, please consider volunteering as a driver. You drive when and where you want. Mileage reimbursement is provided.
Volunteer chore: Imagine no longer being able to run the vacuum, change bedding or cut your lawn. What would your life be like if you couldn’t manage everyday household tasks? What would you do if a parent or close friend was in this situation? We seek volunteers to assist others with these routine chores — which allows them to ‘age in place’ and stay in their home. You can do this volunteering for a few hours a couple times a month someplace in your neighborhood.
Department of Emergency Management: If you’d like to assist the first responders in the event of a county wide emergency, this might be for you. There are several support jobs that allow those working the event to succeed. These jobs are NOT on the scene of the event; they are in the office.
Food banks: No matter where you live a food bank near you needs help. We have opportunities to volunteer all over the county. All need help inside the food bank with repacking food, assisting clients and so on. Some use drivers to go out into the community and pick up food. You can get involved in Arlington, Everett (two locations), Lake Stevens, Lynnwood, Marysville (two locations), Mill Creek, Monroe, Mountlake Terrace, Snohomish and Stanwood/Camano. Hunger never takes a day off.
If you have questions about RSVP, volunteering or any of the agencies listed here, contact RSVP at 425-374-6374 or email me at johnm@ccsww.org .
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