Praise thee oh volunteers who help make our community great.
In recognition of all the hard-working residents who donate their time for the betterment of society, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program held its annual banquet to say thanks.
RSVP is an organization open to people 55 or over. It works to connect volunteers with a situation that best fits their needs, from food banks to nursing homes.
“We have some amazing volunteers, some who might work 20 to 30 hours a week for us,” said RSVP director Jim Wilson. “Some of our volunteers work one-on-one with kids. Some work with after-school programs and some help at nursing homes. We’re always looking for people. It’s a great way to get involved. This luncheon is a way for us to celebrate the efforts made by these wonderful community-minded volunteers.”
Volunteers were treated to lunch and then played Bingo for dozens of door prizes that included about 30 original paintings done by Wilson himself. “I do all my painting in the cab of a ’99 Dodge,” said Wilson. “That’s my studio.”
Among those attending the luncheon was Raintree Manor volunteer Betty Johnson.
“I started volunteering seven years ago because I wanted to get out and do something,” said Johnson, who worked in the furniture industry in North Carolina before moving to Warren County and working at Aquatech until it closed. “I love being at the nursing home. I like them and I think they like me.”
Judie Woodlee also volunteers to help older residents. She plays cards, mostly UNO, with the residents of Riverview Terrace. “Sometimes I let them win,” Woodlee admitted.
Barbara Garretson volunteers at the benevolence center at Central Church of Christ. She also does some work at the Senior Center.
Of her work giving away clothing at the benevolence center, she said, “It’s sad to see people in such need, but then it’s great to be able to help.”
Shirley Baker volunteers with the Bloodmobile, and longtime teacher Barbara Scott, 86, spends time working with children at the Hamilton Street Activity Center. Scott taught for 50 years, including 20 at Warren County High School. She retired from Motlow last year.
“I’m still recovering from the fair,” said Scott, who is a member of the Lions Club and spent time volunteering at that organization’s food booth.
For more information on RSVP, Wilson can be reached at 473-5367.