"I'm in my second semester of tutoring ESL, and it is so fulfilling! It makes me realize how incredibly difficult it is for people from other countries to understand this crazy language of ours -- and how hard, and with determination, they work at it. I feel good that I can help my "learner" navigate through the English maze -- and grateful again for all that "my learners" have given back to me, big time. Thank you for your help in setting me up with the Literacy Network." - Mary, an RSVP Literacy Network Volunteer

RSVP of Dane County is a clearing house for volunteer opportunities geared towards adults age 55 and older.  We have close partnerships with over 85 different community and government agencies throughout the City of Madison and Dane County.  RSVP matches volunteers with opportunities to serve at these agencies. Our staff personally meets with each volunteer placing special emphasis on ensuring that volunteers are matched to opportunities that make use of their talents and interests and fit easily into the volunteers' schedules.

The choice is yours!  Whether it's repairing used bikes for Wheels for Winners, filling clerical duties in a variety of non profit and public offices, unloading and shelving donated construction materials for Habitat ReStore, or something completely new you'd like to try, the variety of places to volunteer and things to do is wide-ranging.

Over the years RSVP has fostered strong ties with a variety of community and government-based agencies.  Several longstanding examples include: The Madison Police Department, The Department of Transportation, Monona Terrace, Olbrich Gardens, Second Harvest Food Bank, The American Red Cross, Meriter Hospital, Hospice Care, Inc and many others.  We also have reciprocal and supportive partnerships with all of the Dane County area senior centers, nutrition sites and senior coalitions.

Recognizing the nature of community needs, RSVP only places volunteers in non-profit or governmental settings.

What are some of the benefits of volunteering at Community agencies through RSVP?

For more information on the RSVP Community Connections Programs, contact Jan Karst, at 608 441-7891. Or, fill out the online request form which you will find here.