See You In September

As we embark on the busiest month of our year (September) for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), I cannot help but feel thankful and blessed. Thankful for the hundreds of volunteers who help to make our communities better. Blessed to be the Director of a National Service Program who harnesses the wisdom and talent from some of the most wonderful people one could ever hope to meet. I have met lifelong homemakers, mechanics, scientists, and accountants, teachers, and farmers, our volunteers come in all shapes and sizes and range from 55 and older. I have met men and woman who can crochet the most beautiful afghans. Talked with service groups who provide scholarships to children. I have seen the handy work of skilled woodworkers and I am always amazed at how generous and loving each volunteer I meet is to me and our community.

I look forward to September even though I know how busy the month will be because of the vast amount of time I will get to spend with them. Be it our "Short Stacks for a Tall Cause" fundraiser with Applebee’s on the 8th, or Cruise 11 in downtown Decatur on the 9th, or my favorite visiting and mingling with our volunteers at our annual volunteer appreciation luncheon. The luncheon is when I get to thank our volunteers and honor them in person. I get to see the volunteers who I have not seen in a year because they are so busy. I get to be a part of announcing the R.O.SE. Award winners and brag to all who are listening, how awesome our volunteers are, and I am honored to be doing so again this year.

Yes, I am thankful and blessed to be learning, serving, and honoring some of the greatest volunteers around, and I thank them for a job well done we could not do this without you.

Charlie Gillaspie

RSVP Director

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