New Research from Senior Corps: Volunteering Is Good for Seniors’ Health

Research shows that volunteering is good for the health and well-being of volunteers. But for older Americans with low-incomes and lower levels of education, a group especially at risk for poor health outcomes, many obstacles can make it difficult to volunteer.

As a result, these individuals may miss out on the health and well-being benefits of volunteering, and communities may miss out on the service these individuals provide.

A new independent report sponsored by Senior Corps and the CNCS Office of Research & Evaluation (ORE) on older adult volunteers offers some good news: Senior Corps provides the access, structure, and financial support for low income, at-risk Americans 55 and older to live happier, healthier lives while making a difference in their communities.

In fact, the research shows that Senior Corps volunteers feel healthier, less depressed, and more connected compared to those who do not volunteer regularly.

Visit seniorcorps.gov/healthyvolunteers to read the full report, issue brief, and more.


We receive funding from the following organizations:

  • AmeriCorps Seniors
  • ​Michigan Aging & Adult Services Agency (AASA) 
  • City of Lansing Human Resources & Community Services
  • Tri-County Office on Aging
  • Ingham County
  • ​Fundraising

SENIOR COMPANIONS

You help older adults with chronic and acute medical conditions and frailties maintain their highest level of independence through companionship and respite. 

RSVP volunteers serve as essential part of our community. Volunteers give their time and talent making the difference in the lives of children and seniors.  They help to support numerous non-profit organizations in schools, health care setting, senior centers and providing support for older adults so they can age in place.
 
Volunteers can choose assignments that support more social contact and teamwork or they can work in their own home knitting hats, scarves, mittens and lap robes. Volunteers can learn new skills in crafts, counseling Medicare/Medicaid recipients, tutoring students, or providing community education in emergency preparedness.

 

 ​Volunteering offers vital help to people in need, worthwhile causes, and the community, but the benefits can be even greater for you, the volunteer. 

 


“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” — Audrey Hepburn

Being a volunteer is not only sharing your time, but your love in the Tri-County area with RSVP of Ingham, Eaton & Clinton Counties!

​RSVP volunteers have been patrolling the River Trail for several years. Our volunteers range from 55 years old to 90 years old. Beginning in April you will see our volunteers out on the trail again this year in their golf carts. They give directions, hand out dog treats and call for help if someone needs it, adding a friendly face to our miles of trails in Lansing. On March 26th Mayor Schor thanked the volunteers for years of service and their willingness to be back out on the trails again this year. Currently we have 37 volunteers and can always use more. If you are interested, please call our office at 517 887-6116 and ask for Jim Dell. Come and enjoy the River Trail with us! (Also included in the pictures is Al Cosper who is 90 years old and cannot wait to get out on the trail with his partner Phyllis.)

VOLUNTEERS

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” — Winston Churchill Senior volunteer opportunities


Find out how you can volunteer!

Join Our Campaign!

RSVP

Our volunteers are dedicated and caring individuals with vast life experiences which contribute to the unique services we provide.

Retired & Senior Volunteer Programs of Ingham, Eaton, & Clinton Counties 

2400 Pattengill, Lansing, MI 48910

We would like to thank the members of IBEW 665 for their donation of goods and labor to upgrade some electrical needs in our office.

​​​Congratulations on the recent grant to RSVP in the amount of $10,000.00 from Verizon for Social Isolationism & Technology for Seniors. 

FOSTER GRANDPARENTS

Foster Grandparents are role models, mentors, tutors, and friends to children with exceptional needs.