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RSVP Volunteers, Our Shining Stars!


As I work to finalize all those little details that go into the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program’s (RSVP) Appreciation luncheon I am filled with pride and so very grateful I get to be the Director of such an excellent program. So many volunteers perform service to so many different and worthy causes that at times it can be difficult to keep up with them. Over 380 volunteers were actively serving community needs and worked more than 63,000 hours. 10% of those hours performed were by volunteers who are no strangers to service, our local Veterans. Every day I see what the power of compassion, dedication, and true grit can accomplish. Did I mention that the average age of our volunteers is 76? The wisdom and experience that RSVP volunteers share with our community members are simply amazing.

RSVP volunteers do it all; we have volunteers who help deliver Meals on Wheels, distribute goods at food pantries, and help prepare and serve meals in the soup kitchens, so no one has to go hungry. They perform outreach and disaster services whenever they are called, even in the wee hours of the morning. They work to protect our environment, recycle, and help ensure that all community members have access to nature and the beauty it holds. They mentor, tutor, and comfort our children and boost those children and make them stronger.  They unselfishly sort, collect, and manage donations large and small for Veterans, the elderly, and anyone else who has a need. The transport, visit and perform activities required for others to stay in their homes and engage in their community. The volunteers can do attitude, and perseverance changes others’ lives every single day of the year throughout the Macon and DeWitt counties. In small towns like Farmer City to the City of Decatur RSVP volunteers are contributing time, talent, and tenacity to make our communities the best place to live for all of us. 

So, when I say I am grateful and filled with pride to be the person who gets to brag on, uplift, and celebrate RSVP volunteers, you can bet I work to cross off every minute detail to give them an unforgettable appreciation luncheon.  From amazing speakers, surprise entertainment, and door prizes the RSVP Advisory Council, business donors, and I aim for the stars because our RSVP volunteers are our shining stars and they are out of this world!
Charlie Gillaspie
RSVP Program Director


Each year, a Volunteer Appreciation Event is hosted for our Retired and Senior Volunteer Program members. The 2017 event is September 21.

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