RSVP of Ingham, Eaton, & Clinton Counties
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RSVP Volunteer Program--Find Your Passion. Serve Your Community. Make a Difference.
The Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is a community-based volunteer organization that connects adults 55 and older with meaningful opportunities to serve throughout Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton Counties. We recruit compassionate, skilled volunteers to address critical community needs while enriching the lives of those who serve.
Our volunteers bring a lifetime of knowledge, experience, and talents that strengthen local nonprofit organizations, schools, healthcare providers, parks, and community agencies. Whether you want to serve a few hours each month or several days each week, RSVP offers flexible volunteer opportunities that fit your interests, schedule, and lifestyle.
Volunteer Your Way
One of the greatest benefits of RSVP is flexibility. Volunteers choose:
- Where they would like to serve
- The type of work they enjoy
- How often they volunteer
- The amount of time they wish to commit
Volunteer commitments range from a few hours each year to 40 hours per week, allowing everyone to find an opportunity that matches their availability.
Featured Volunteer Opportunities
Medical Ride Program
One of RSVP's most impactful services is our Medical Ride Program, which provides free transportation to medical appointments for older adults and adults with disabilities who no longer drive.
Volunteer drivers use their personal vehicles to provide door-to-door transportation for medical appointments such as:
- Primary care visits
- Cancer treatments and dialysis
- Physical therapy
- Dental and vision appointments
- Hospital procedures
- Pharmacy stops following appointments when needed
For many clients, these rides mean the difference between receiving critical medical care or missing an appointment. Our volunteer drivers do much more than provide transportation—they offer reassurance, conversation, compassion, and peace of mind while helping older adults remain healthy and independent in their own homes.
Volunteer drivers receive mileage reimbursement while serving.
River Trail Patrol
If you enjoy being outdoors, the River Trail Patrol is a rewarding way to help keep our community safe and beautiful.
Working in two-person teams, volunteers patrol the Lansing River Trail using golf carts during the spring, summer, and fall. Volunteers serve as extra eyes and ears along the trail by:
- Reporting safety hazards
- Identifying damaged trail conditions
- Reporting graffiti and illegal dumping
- Reporting fallen trees or maintenance concerns
- Helping visitors with directions and information
- Reporting concerns that require emergency response
Their presence helps create a safer, cleaner, and more welcoming environment for thousands of residents and visitors who enjoy the River Trail each year.
Many Ways to Serve
RSVP volunteers make a difference in countless ways throughout the community. Opportunities include:
- Assisting students in schools and educational programs
- Supporting hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Serving at senior centers and nutrition sites
- Welcoming travelers at the Capital Region International Airport
- Assisting local law enforcement and public service agencies
- Supporting food distribution and community outreach programs
- Helping older adults remain independent
- Assisting military members, veterans, and their families
- Knitting, crocheting, sewing, and creating handmade items for individuals in need
- Participating in environmental stewardship and community improvement projects
Whether you enjoy working directly with people, being outdoors, or volunteering from home, there is an RSVP opportunity that's right for you.
Who Can Become an RSVP Volunteer?
To join RSVP, you simply need to:
- Be 55 years of age or older
- Have a desire to serve your community
- Complete any orientation or assignment-specific training required for your volunteer position
No matter your background, professional experience, or skill level, we can help match you with an opportunity that fits your interests and abilities.
Training and Volunteer Support
Every RSVP volunteer receives:
- Pre-service orientation
- Assignment-specific training provided by the volunteer station
- Ongoing staff support
- Supplemental accident and liability insurance while serving
- Opportunities for recognition and appreciation throughout the year
While RSVP volunteers do not receive a monetary stipend, some volunteer assignments, such as the Medical Ride Program, provide mileage reimbursement, and sponsoring organizations may reimburse approved volunteer-related expenses when applicable.
Strengthening Our Community
Every day, RSVP volunteers help fill critical community needs that might otherwise go unmet. As community needs evolve, new volunteer opportunities are developed to respond to emerging challenges. Many of our volunteer assignments provide ongoing support to organizations that rely on volunteers to continue serving vulnerable populations.
The impact extends far beyond the hours volunteered. Our volunteers help children succeed in school, support older adults in maintaining independence, protect community resources, strengthen nonprofit organizations, and improve the quality of life for residents throughout the Tri-County area.
Volunteering Benefits You Too
Research consistently shows that volunteering benefits both the community and the volunteer. People who volunteer often experience:
- Greater physical and mental well-being
- Increased social connections and friendships
- A stronger sense of purpose
- Continued learning and personal growth
- Improved cognitive engagement
- Reduced feelings of loneliness and depression
- Greater satisfaction from giving back to their community
Many RSVP volunteers tell us that volunteering has enriched their lives just as much as it has enriched the lives of those they serve.
Whether you want to drive a neighbor to a lifesaving medical appointment, help keep our River Trail safe, support local nonprofits, or simply give back to your community, RSVP has a place for you. Join us and discover how your time, talents, and experience can make a lasting difference.