Volunteer Opportunities Abound
The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of the Washington County Commission on Aging has been a mainstay of the Washington County area for nearly 35 years. Dedicated to placing individuals 55 years of age or older in service to meet critical community needs, RSVP currently boasts over 400 volunteers who serve at approximately 80 facilities in the county. Below, please find descriptions of our most significant current volunteer needs.
Volunteers to go grocery shopping for those who cannot go for themselves; volunteer picks up grocery list and money, goes to clients’ store of preference and delivers groceries back to client. Clients are never taken to do their own shopping and volunteers are ideally placed with a client who lives in close proximity to them to reduce travel
All elementary schools in the county are in desperate need of volunteers to work as tutors or mentors with children who are mostly in grades kindergarten through three. Volunteers would be asked to either read to the child or listen to them read in an effort to improve their skills. Most schools have a reading system that may involve coloring pages, word finds, etc., all of which the volunteer could employ during the tutoring session. Other positions are available.
Numerous clerical/receptionist/computer positions are available at local non-profits such as the Hagerstown Police Department, the VA Outpatient Clinic, the Community Free Clinic and the State’s Attorney’s Office Victim-Witness Unit.
Individuals experienced in preparing state and federal income tax returns who would be willing to take part in IRS training are needed to prepare returns during tax season. All returns are E-filed.
Meals on Wheels drivers and helpers are needed on a regular or substitute basis.
American Red Cross is seeking Bloodmobile Canteen workers, greeters and escorts.
Antietam National Battlefield, C&O National Historical Park and the Miller House Museum are seeking Visitor Services Volunteers to greet visitors, hand out literature or become roving interpreters.
Hospice of Washington County needs individuals to become Patient Care Volunteers and work directly in homes of patients and their families.
Many and varied positions exist at the Humane Society of Washington County, including foster parents for pets, dog walkers, kitty care workers and customer assistants.
The University System of Maryland is seeking individuals to work in the library, greeting students and faculty, shelf library materials, monitor library materials and check users for appropriate identification.
Volunteer Ombudsman Program seeking individuals to help monitor area nursing homes and assisted living facilities and make appropriate recommendations for improvements. They provide information to residents and mediate their concerns.
Whatever your talent or interest, there is a place in RSVP for you! Call Hannah S. Cramer, RSVP Director at 301-790-0275 ext. 209 for more information.
RSVP offers reimbursement for travel and meal expenses and provides no-cost accident insurance coverage while volunteer is serving.
