The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Americorps originated in Staten Island in 1965, when a group of older adults volunteered at the underfunded and troubled Willowbrook State School. Today in New York State, more than 1,100 adults between the ages of 55 and 101 volunteer at more than 250 nonprofit organizations. They help provide a service while keeping active and connected to their community. From providing access to food to giving advice on household finances, older adults who volunteer are likely to decrease their chances of premature death, according to a Harvard School of Public Health study.

We highlight Staten Island resident Sharon Mineo, who volunteers with the Nourish the Service food pantry at Fort Wadsworth Military Base, and with a grandmothers club and a hospital; and Alina Molina, who manages the RSVP program as Vice President, Program services, for the Community Service Society in New York.

The Americorps Seniors RSVP Program in New York City is always looking for more volunteers and has a lot of opportunities. If you are age 55 or older call 212-674-RSVP (7787) or email [email protected].

This Aging Together in New York segment from The WNET Group was made by:

Dana Roberson, Executive Producer
Michelle Smawley, Producer
Hari Sreenivasan, Correspondent
Judith Wolff, Editor
Darren Peister, Editor
Kerry Solloway, Editor
Mark E. Andersen, Camera
Chris Callus, Audio
Michael Pruitt-Bruun, Camera
Joe Conlon, Camera
Haghi Suka, Camera
Sonoko Aoyagi Leopold, Operations Manager

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