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Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)

Created in 1966 by the Community Service Society, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) recruits, trains, and places volunteers at community-based organizations throughout the five boroughs of New York City.

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of CSS has nearly 3,000 volunteers 55+ at hundreds of nonprofit agencies throughout New York City.  The strength of our program is three-fold:

  • We provide life-changing opportunities for volunteers ages 55 and over.
  • We help meet the critical needs of communities by mobilizing tens of thousands of hours of volunteer service.
  • We strengthen public and nonprofit agencies by matching skilled volunteers with vital programs and services.

A Tradition of Innovation

CSS launched RSVP more than 45 years ago as a pilot program on Staten Island. Since then, the program has been replicated nationally, mobilizing more than 500,000 older-adult volunteers. Today, we continue to develop innovative new volunteer initiatives, including:

The Financial Advocacy Program, which boosts the economic security of low-income New Yorkers through public benefits counseling and financial education. 

Reentry Services and Youth Mentoring, programs which prepare the formerly incarcerated and their familiesfor success in school, on the job, and in the community.

How can I get involved? 

Through a personalized, one-on-one interview, we work with individuals to determine their skills and interests and the right opportunity.  Once a match is found, volunteers begin to serve for as many hours as their schedule allows.  For more information, please see our Frequently Asked Questions.

For Volunteers: We offer a wide range of engaging volunteer assignments in all five boroughs of New York City.  Get started by exploring some of our current opportunities. 

For Agencies: RSVP volunteers bring a lifetime of experience.  Find out how RSVP can help you plan, train, and recruit for successful volunteer placements that strengthen your organization and help you achieve your mission. 

 

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RSVP is part of the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) and is sponsored by the Community Service Society (CSS).  RSVP is funded by CNCS, CSS, individuals, foundations, and government agencies.

RSVP Partners: Coming of Age, JASA, VOAD, NYAVA, Support Center, Transition Network

Visit our programs: Benefits Plus Learning Center   |   Community Health Advocates   |   Education Debt Consumer Assistance Program   |   Independent Consumer Advocacy Network