AmeriCorps Seniors is open to individuals 55 and better who want to positively impact their community through service. The program’s motto is “Make Giving Back Your Second Act.”
AmeriCorps Seniors has three core programs: (1) Senior Companion; (2) Foster Grandparent; and (3) Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). In Escambia County, the Council on Aging of West Florida manages the first two initiatives while the United Way of West Florida coordinates the third.
All three programs are underwritten with federal funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service. Funding is awarded through a competitive grant process and requires a local match. The Senior Companion and Foster Grandparent programs, however, are very different from RSVP.
Senior Companions and Foster Grandparents live on a limited income and volunteer an average of 20 hours per week. They receive a small financial stipend plus supplemental insurance, help with transportation and meal costs, an annual physical examination, and position-specific training. A key program objective is improving the volunteers' financial well-being while they serve their communities. More specifically:
Senior Companions support an older adult who needs help with shopping, light housekeeping, cooking and other daily tasks so they can be independent longer. They also provide respite for family caregivers.
Foster Grandparents serve at the day care, public school, Head Start, or after-school program of their choice. Volunteers help children develop the skills, confidence, and strength to succeed in life by experiencing the consistent love of a Foster Grandparent.
RSVP volunteers, on the other hand, do not receive a stipend but they have significantly more flexibility regarding service sites and the number of hours served. Like all AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers, they have a heart for service and a willingness to serve their neighbors and community.
Next month, we are going to explore the RSVP program in Escambia County in detail. Please stay tuned! I can also answer questions before then. Contact me at janet.mccoy@uwwf.org to learn more.
Fun Fact
Every year over 140,000 AmeriCorps Seniors volunteer
at partner organizations throughout the United States.
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