Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)
| RSVP stands for Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. It is America's largest network for people age 55 and better who contribute their time and experience to important organizations that improve the community. RSVP is sponsored by HandsOn Suburban Chicago in northern Cook and DuPage counties, and is part of the Corporation for National and Community Service. |
 |
 |
 |
Personal assistance is available after browsing our volunteer opportunities by emailing us at rsvp@volunteerinfo.net. Please note the volunteer opportunity name and organization in your message.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who makes up RSVP?
How much time will it take?
Who can volunteer?
How does RSVP work?
What ways do volunteers serve the community?
Where do volunteers work?
What are the benefits?
How can I get more information?
There are more than 950 RSVP volunteers in northern Cook and DuPage counties working at over 130 local nonprofit organizations. Every day they are providing the necessary social services to improve the lives of their neighbors in the community.
How much time will it take?
With RSVP, you get to choose when and where you serve. Our volunteer coordinators will find an opportunity that fits conveniently into your schedule so that you get the most out of your experience.
Who can volunteer?
You can be a RSVP volunteer if you are age 55 or better. RSVP also encourages its volunteers to bring friends to share the work and enjoy the experience together.
How does RSVP work?
RSVP is a link between the resources of older adults and the needs of the community. RSVP is supported by contributions from the federal government and local sponsors.
What ways do volunteers serve the community?
RSVP volunteers can choose to serve the community in several ways. Some activities that our volunteers take part in include:
- Tutoring and mentoring children
- Teaching adult literacy classes
- Visiting people in residential care facilities
- Providing information on health insurance
- Helping in resale shops
- Shopping for the homebound
- Playing or singing music
- Knitting and crocheting
- Answering phones
- Assisting patients in hospitals
- Participating in disaster preparedness training
- Performing data entry
- Serving as a board member
- Serving as an ombudsman
- Driving for Meals On Wheels
- Placing skilled volunteers
- Teaching drivers safety classes
And much more!
Where do volunteers work?
RSVP volunteers work at public and private nonprofit agencies throughout northern Cook and northern DuPage counties. Click the link above to browse opportunities.
What are the benefits?
When you volunteer, you’re not just helping others—you’re helping yourself. You get the satisfaction of using your skills to make a difference in the lives of your fellow residents and neighbors. In addition, you get to meet other active adults of all ages. Also, studies show that volunteering helps you live longer and promotes a positive outlook on life.
When you sign up you will receive one-on-one placement services with our volunteer coordinators. As part of RSVP, you receive supplemental Accident, Personal and Automobile Liability Insurance while traveling directly to and from, and participating in volunteer activities.
Where can I get more information?
HandsOn Suburban Chicago
2121 S Goebbert Road
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Phone: (847) 228-1006
Email: RSVP@volunteerinfo.net
Ready to Volunteer?
You can read the latest RSVP newsletter here
