More than 150 seniors are active in Lauderdale County through the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), a community impact program of United Way of East Mississippi since 1974. United Way understands that volunteers can have critical roles in strengthening our community and helping agencies meet vital needs. RSVP volunteers allow nearly two dozen partnering agencies to expand their capacity to provide services to those individuals who need assistance.

    “Why do I do it? Because I enjoy giving back, and getting to meet new people,” said volunteer Barbara Wells, who serves at the Lauderdale Welcome Center on I-20.

    This is one example of how RSVP provides senior volunteers opportunities to share their knowledge and experience that has been gained over the years, which benefits the agencies and the community. This also results in our seniors being valued and enjoying a high quality experience that will enrich their lives through their volunteering experience.

    In addition to the normal volunteer service provided through local non-profit agencies, several special activities are provided throughout the year by the RSVP organization.

    During this time of year, RSVP volunteers are busy helping people prepare non-complicated 2015 tax returns. RSVP and AARP work in a collaborative effort to help the general public. There is no charge for this service, but people need to bring a copy of their 2014 tax return, 2015 tax information, government issued photo ID, and Social Security Cards for all family members.

    “It’s a good feeling knowing that you have helped guide someone through the maze of tax regulations,” volunteer Bill Vicars said.

    Appointments have to be scheduled for Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., at the United Way building located at 4817 North Park Drive, which is just off North Hills Street behind the KFC, in the former Social Security building. Call 601-482-0512 to make an appointment. Note: tax assistance on Mondays and Wednesdays is limited to those with income of $54,000 or below

    On Thursdays, AARP Tax-Aide Volunteers provide assistance at the EMEPA building on Highway 39 North. Assistance is provided on a first come, first serve basis on Thursdays.

    On March 17, an AARP Smart Drivers course will be offered by RSVP. The participants receive a refresher on how to be a smart and safe driver, and learn of recommended changes in driving procedures. There is a $15 fee for AARP members or $20 for non-members to cover the course materials, which the participants take home. The cost is offset, however, because the graduates of the class then qualify for a discount on their vehicle insurance from their personal insurance companies.

    The classroom setting will start at 8:30 a.m. and will be finished by 12:30 p.m. at the United Way Volunteer Center, 4817 North Park Drive, located directly behind the KFC on North Hills Street. The course is taught by a certified AARP instructor. There is limited seating, so reservations are required by calling Joyce at 601-482-0512 to register. The class has proven so popular in the past that it maxed out the attendance capacity.

    Volunteers in RSVP determine which local non-profit agency and how many hours they wish to serve each week. The time commitment can vary from a few hours a month to almost full-time, with around four hours a week often typical for many of the volunteers. Some of the examples of how RSVP volunteers serve may be as museum or hospital docents, serve as greeters and/or registration assistants, help people recover from natural disasters, and/or deliver hot meals to the homebound, to name a few.

    The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is one of the largest volunteer networks in the nation for people 55 and over. Too often seniors and retirees who are no longer working discover that all that free time can lead to a sense of boredom or lack of purpose in life. Scheduling a few hours to volunteer at an agency of your own choosing can be the answer to making new friends and developing new interests.

    RSVP is always seeking more volunteers, especially as new volunteer support organizations are added. We seek to provide seniors additional opportunities to become an active part of your community, while doing something you enjoy. Evidence shows that older persons who are active and volunteer tend to live longer and live better. If you are wondering what you can do to “give back” or to add to the vitality in your own life, you might consider volunteering with RSVP, simply by calling 601-482-0512.

Tom Tabereaux is director of the Meridian/Lauderdale County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program.