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Retired Senior Volunteer Program |
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| Basic Info | | Stories | Contact Info | Reading and math skill development Research shows that children who are not proficient in reading and math skills by 4th grade have difficulties throughout the course of their schooling. Scores from The National Assessment of Education Progress (2005) reflect that reading achievement levels for 62% of NH 4th graders and math achievement levels for 53% of NH 4th graders were Basic or Below Basic. Teachers, due to large class sizes and tightened funding, are often unable to offer the necessary individual attention to children and youth needing extra help in a wide variety of settings and through a wide range of activities, including tutoring one-on-one, reading aloud to small groups, coaching in math skill development and assisting with homework during after school hours. Friends RSVP has partnered with organizations to create opportunities for RSVP volunteers to serve as tutors for elementary school aged children. Children will be assisted on a one to one basis or in small groups to establish interest in reading or math and to enhance reading or math skills improve skills in these areas. Assistance in support of independent living In New Hampshire, people age 65 and older are the fastest growing segment of the population. In Rockingham County 26,622 individuals 65 yrs and over reside in the community, 9,364 of which either live alone or receive some form of assisted care in long-term care settings or with family. For those who reside in long-term care institutions, social interactions significantly affect an individual's quality of life. Individuals and staff at assisted care facilities, adult day and elder related programs depend on volunteers to provide social interaction with consumers that might not otherwise be received. For those who reside in the community, many are frail, in need of at least some outside assistance, and/or at risk of entering a nursing home in the near future. Often these low-income elderly or persons living with disabilities lack the means and physical ability to tend to daily activities such as transportation, meal preparation, and home repair and are unable to access cultural or social opportunities offered by libraries, faith communities and recreational facilities. To support for these vulnerable populations and families, assist them to feel less isolated, remain healthy and in many cases or prevent nursing home placement for many seniors. Friends RSVP provides volunteers to organizations addressing these needs. It also partners with additional organizations to create additional opportunities for volunteers respond to consumer demands for assistance with cost-effective transportation to for grocery shopping, errands, and healthcare; companionship, social activity, household and assistance, access to nutritious meals and food. Assisting local non-profit agencies to increase their service capacity Due to limited financial resources, many non-profits, municipalities and healthcare institutions struggle to meet or expand their capacity to serve. In order to make the best use of professional and clerical resources, these organizations rely on volunteer assistance. Other Impact Each year program staff conducts an assessment of the impact of the RSVP program is having on both the senior volunteers and the community needs being addressed:
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