RSVP Voice December 2014!

Toys for Tots

Toys for Tots began nationally in 1947 in California when Major Bill Hendricks, United States Marine Corps Reserve, and a group of reservists collected and distributed 5,000 toys to needy children. Toys for Tots is active in the Lubbock community, and in 2013, more than 5,000 toys were donated, collected and distributed. The Garrison Institute on Aging/Lubbock RSVP will be a collection site for donated toys. Bring a new, unwrapped toy or a monetary contribution to the Southwest location at 6630 S. Quaker Ave, Suite E. Deadline for donations is Dec. 8. We can arrange pickup if you are unable to deliver.

Meals on Wheels

Lubbock Meals on Wheels is looking for volunteer drivers, both regular and substitute to deliver meals. Each route contains approximately 10-12 meals and can be delivered in an hour. Orientation and background checks are required for all delivery volunteers. More than 700 meals are delivered each day and the need is growing. One hour of your time can make an incredible difference in the life of someone who is homebound, elderly, or disabled. For information, call 806-792-7971.

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers. Habitat depends on the skills and energy of community volunteers to build and renovate houses. Without the help of volunteers they would never be able to reach their goals. Lubbock Habitat for Humanity offers guidance and support for its volunteers. The staff can answer questions and listen to new ideas. If you do not know how to hold a hammer or you have not held one for years, the construction department can show you the tricks of the trade, such as hanging sheet rock or installing cabinets. There are others ways to help beside construction of homes. The need is also in committee work, first aid, food services, neighbor involvement, and office administration. They also accept new and gently used furniture, household items and appliances as well as building materials, and they will even pick up. Contact 806-763-4663 for more information on ways to assist.

Foster Grandparents

Lubbock Foster Grandparents is a program that connects volunteers age 55 and over with children and young people with exceptional needs. Volunteers mentor, support and assist some of the most vulnerable children in the United States. Some volunteers are eligible for stipends to assist with travel expenses. If interested, call 806-741-3631.

Interim Hospice

Interim Hospice is in need of volunteers in a variety of roles encompassing respite care, sitting with patients, errands for family, clerical, visitation in nursing homes, and assistance in bereavement support as well as office assistance. Your help is needed today. For information, call 806-791-0043.

Why Volunteer?

One third of the volunteers in the United States are age 50 and older. Volunteers, especially those 55 and older have found that volunteering helps maintain health and is good. Volunteering assists your mental health, provides additional experience and skills, gives you a place to make new friends and contacts, and provides a positive change in your outlook on life, and makes you happier. Lubbock RSVP would welcome the opportunity to find volunteer opportunities to match your interests, skills, sense of adventure, sense of humor, compassion, goals, time, abilities and experiences. If you are interested in the more than 40 volunteer areas we serve, contact the Lubbock office at 743-7787.

“To the world you may be one person; but to one person you may be the world.” –Dr. Seuss

Today is a good day to volunteer.

Category: RSVP Voice!, RSVP Voice! Archive, Uncategorized