The work of more than 300 retired and senior volunteers in the Louisville area was honored today at a special event at The Olmsted, 3701 Frankfort Ave. “Your Piece Matters” was the theme for the annual recognition of the Louisville Metro Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), highlighting the positive impact each individual makes.
As part of the city’s Office of Resilience and Community Services (RCS), RSVP connects persons aged 55 and over with their choice of more than 40 public service and non-profit locations, including the American Red Cross, Hosparus Health, Senior Nutrition Centers, Dare to Care, Community Ministries and the Robley Rex VA Medical Center.
RSVP members were joined by volunteer site representatives, AmeriCorps Seniors Advisory Council members, and RCS staff. Barry Bernson, former local TV morning show host and current author and actor, served as the master of ceremonies. Mayor Greg Fischer provided the keynote remarks.
“Through their volunteerism these senior citizens are making a real and positive difference in their communities and show why our city is both compassionate and resilient,” said Mayor Fischer. “I am proud to join with the Louisville Metro RSVP to recognize those who give their time to better the lives of others.”
During this year’s celebration, 50 RSVP volunteers who reached their dedicated, volunteer service milestones of five to 35 years received special recognition.
Also featured: a salute to the nearly 100 veterans who serve as RSVPs, including a special acknowledgment to Jo Ann Orr who was named the 2022 Kentucky’s Woman Veteran of the Year. Other honorees included the 10 RSVP volunteers who were recognized in September at the University of Louisville Trager Institute’s Gold Standard Optimal Aging Award Luncheon for being 85 years of age and older and continuing their volunteerism.
“RSVP volunteers generously give their energy, skills and caring dedication toward providing over 50,000 hours over the last couple years, even during a COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in more than $1.2 million in savings/service impact for their agencies,” said RSVP Program Coordinator, Chris Clements. “This celebration is their public ‘thank you’. Everyone with RSVP makes a difference in this community touching lives daily.”
RSVP is federally sponsored by AmeriCorps and this year’s event sponsors include JenCare, Humana, UofL Trager Institute and AARP Kentucky.
For more information on RSVP activities or to learn how to become a volunteer, call (502) 574-1530 or visit https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services/retired-and-senior-volunteer-program-rsvp.
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