Dakota West Retired and Senior Volunteer Program Coordinator Beverly Hafele is looking for the next generation of volunteers.
"RSVP is your invitation to serve," she said.
"Basically, the next generation is the baby boomer generation. We're trying to have them become our volunteers," she added.
Hafele took over the job as project coordinator three months ago. A native of Richardton, she graduated from Dickinson State University in 1994 and worked for the Western and Central Stark Soil Conservation District.
RSVP is a program for people age 55 and older who use their life skills to help their neighbors. Volunteers are placed with non-profit organizations, health-related facilities and government organizations.
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"We have them help serve meals for Elder Care. They're going to be working at the Halloween party for Parks and Rec. They do mailings. They worked at Herberger's Goodwill Sale," she said.
The Dakota West RSVP started in 1973 and covers Stark County and seven surrounding counties.
"We have about 168 active members," she said.
The volunteers receive supplemental accident and liability insurance and the rides are provided by the Eldercare bus.
"It's an opportunity for them to get out in the community and to give back. It keeps them active," she said.
North Dakota State University became the sponsor for the RSVP programs in eastern North Dakota in 2003. The Division of Distance and Continuing Education wrote a federal grant to bring in the majority of operating dollars for the regional programs. The Dakota West RSVP joined the NDSU team in 2005. Federal dollars are matched locally by United Way of Dickinson, mill levies and fundraisers.
"Next spring, we'll have our basket auction," she said.
Hafele said the best part of her job is working with the volunteers. She recently coordinated an RSVP recognition luncheon at the Dickinson Elks Lodge.
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"Everyone was recognized. It was our way of thanking them for volunteering for the year," she said.
For more information about the program, call 227-8421.
