RSVP Hosts Volunteer Recognition Banquet

It was a “Big Deal” at Brown Dining Room on the University of Minnesota Campus Wednesday, August 2nd!  The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of the Red River Valley hosted their annual Volunteer Recognition Banquet, honoring more than 200 guests throughout the seven county region for their outstanding volunteer service.

The “Full House” of volunteers enjoyed a Casino-themed party, tying in door prizes, a delicious buffet meal, volunteer awards and parting gifts… all designed to remind volunteers that they comprise the “Jackpot!”

RSVP Director, Tammy Frohlich reminded them of their incredible value, stating how their 60,200 reported hours of service throughout the year generated a pot of $1,453,228 savings to the state of MN and Northwest Minnesota Counties.  “All 600+ of our volunteer are winners; every hour of giving impacts our rural communities and individual lives!” 

The “Payout” provides proven health benefits for the 55 and older group of volunteers, such as reduced mortality and heart disease, less depression and greater life satisfaction.  Additionally, a newly released study from the University of Calgary found that seniors who volunteered regularly (at least one hour per week, averaging 52 hours/year) were less likely to develop dementia.

It’s a “Win – Win” situation, as communities and individuals are impacted by the services RSVP volunteer programs provide, such as Elementary literacy enhancement, falls prevention exercise classes, grocery shopping and handyman home repairs for seniors, home delivered meals, and others.  RSVP engages adults 55 and older in volunteer service to meet community needs, and to provide a high quality experience that will enrich the lives of volunteers.  With RSVP, you choose the amount of time you want to give.  You choose whether you want to draw on your skills or develop new ones.  When you volunteer, you’re not just helping others—you’re helping yourself.  Volunteering leads to new discoveries and new friends.

Among the “Best Hands” in the house were those who “Upped the Ante” and received the prestigious Presidential Volunteer Service Award.  Current RSVP volunteers who surpassed 4000 lifetime service hours being honored included: Mary J. Carlson, Hallock, Doris Nelson of Argyle and Ardell Snare, Roseau.

RSVP is housed and sponsored by the University of Minnesota, Crookston, which delivers 29 bachelor’s degree programs, 20 minors, and 36 concentrations on campus--as well as 13 degrees online--in the areas of agriculture and natural resources; business; liberal arts and education; and math, science and technology. With an enrollment of 1,800 undergraduates from more than 20 countries and 40 states, the Crookston campus offers a supportive, close-knit atmosphere that leads to a prestigious University of Minnesota degree. “Small Campus. Big Degree.” To learn more, visit www.umcrookston.edu.

To “Cash in” on the rewards and benefits of volunteering, contact RSVP at 218-281-8289, or jkerdman@umn.edu.