RSVP is a national program. Its purpose is to provide enrichment for older adults through significant community service. It encourages seniors to bring a lifetime of talent, experience, skills, and hobbies, to community projects, organizations, and agencies needing talented volunteers.

The program was first introduced to El Paso in 1974. Since then the program has grown to almost 1,700 volunteers, making it one of the largest programs in the country. El Paso RSVP volunteers serve in 102 non-profit organizations and agencies in the City and County of El Paso. RSVP volunteers devote over 200,000 hours of service every year.

Volunteers can be found at different locations between Canutillo and Fabens. They have varied tasks; from working with community centers, day care centers for children and adults, pet and zoo animals, nutrition centers, hospitals, museums, libraries, law enforcement agencies, and to provide friendly phone calls from home.

Volunteers serve without pay. There is no educational or income requirement. The only requirements are to be age 55 and older and have the willingness to serve.

A current feature of the RSVP is the "Calling All Seniors" program. This program is to provide a visit via a friendly telephone call service from one senior to another. There are several advantages for those that call and for those receiving the calls.

The Calling All Seniors program does not ONLY provide friendly phone calls to seniors; it also provides referral to agencies for other services that may be needed.

For those seniors making the calls, it enables them to remain active through their volunteer work. Their self esteem is increased, as well as their knowledge of community services.

For those receiving the calls, it facilitates them with referral information, a link to the community, and assists them to establish or reestablish communication with others sharing similar interests and making new friends.

The service is free and can make a big difference in the life of an isolated senior.

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) celebrated 32 years of service in El Paso on September 23, 2006 at the El Paso Convention and Performing Arts Center. Over 250 Volunteers were recognized for 25, 20, 15, 10, and 5 years of service.

Gregg Drow was recognized for 25 years of service as a volunteer. He currently volunteers at the El Paso Lighthouse.

If you are 55 years of age and are interested in volunteering, obtaining more information, or an opportunities booklet of volunteer locations, contact us at (915) 541-4374 or by email to rsvp@elpasotexas.gov

Mayor John Cook with Gregg Drow (25 Years of Service Volunteer)

Some of the Twenty Years of Service Volunteers

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