Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)

Friends RSVP Mission

RSVP has the dual purpose of engaging those 55 and over in meaningful volunteer service and providing volunteers to meet critical community needs. RSVP volunteers have a lifetime of experience and are using their skills and talents to strengthen their own community. As a program we have selected the area of “Healthy Futures” as our main objective. Friends RSVP strengthens communities in the following ways. 

Assisting with aging at home and independent living:We operate Caregivers, a Merrimack County based program designed to meet the needs of those aging at home.RSVP staffrecruit, screen and support RSVP volunteers who provide door-through-door transportation for medical appointments   Rides are free of charge to clients. Clients must be age 60+ and be unable to access other services.

 
Caregivers offers a free grocery shopping service for seniors as well as a telephone reassurance program to assist homebound seniors with groceries, and social isolation in Merrimack County. We aim to keep individuals living at home longer with improved social interactions and social support. 
 

Helping food insecure families and individuals: We help food insecure families feel more secure by recruiting RSVP volunteers to serve at food pantries and backpack programs. Additionally we recruit RSVP volunteers to assist with community gardens and gleaning projects, distributing hundreds of pounds of produce to those most in need.

Bone Builders: Bone Builders is a free senior strength training and balance exercise program. It can prevent and reverse osteoporosis and improves muscle strength, balance and bone density, along with helping with energy and general health. Classes are taught by certified RSVP volunteer leaders at over 20 locations throughout Merrimack, Rockingham, and Belknap counties. 

Youth Mentoring: RSVP volunteers serve as Youth Mentors for at-risk children in Merrimack County forming relationships that provide social support. This program aims to increase positive sense of self, academic engagement, and provides youth in need with positive caring role models.        

                                                                                                                                                                                     RSVP Sponsors

RSVP Sponsors 2

Merrimack County                                 Rockingham County

Atkinson Brentwood Candia Chester
Danville Exeter Fremont Hampstead
Hampton Hampton Falls Kingston Londonderry
New Castle Newington North Hampton Portsmouth
Northwood Nottingham Plaistow Sandown
Raymond Rye Salem
Seabrook South Hampton Stratham