Retired Senior Volunteer Program
RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) partners with different sites in Lackawanna, Luzerne, and Wyoming County to address various community needs. A program that recruits volunteers who are 55 and older and who are interested in volunteering their time and talents to address community needs. Traditionally the RSVP program has focused on areas such as Education, Literacy, Economic Opportunity, Healthy Futures and others. With our new grant we hope to continue to address those areas in addition to senior isolation, food insecurity and any other opportunities that may arise.
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunity Descriptions
Transforming Readers Program
Transforming Readers is a volunteer tutoring program for Kindergarten - 2nd grade students who are reading just below grade level. The program provides a strong foundation for early grade reading success because reading proficiency is the most critical skill a student must acquire in order to be successful in school and in life.
The United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne, and Pike Counties is pleased to be working in partnership with the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging to recruit, screen, and manage the volunteer tutors. With extra one-on-one or two-on-one practice with a community volunteer, these students will advance their grade level reading skills faster than they otherwise would have without a tutor.
Our Transforming Readers program targets Kindergarten through 2nd grade struggling readers with a goal to read on grade level by the start of third grade. The program will operate in the Scranton, Dunmore, and Old Forge School Districts, providing students with the support they need to gain the skills necessary to read proficiently.
Transforming Readers needs you! The program relies on the dedication and support of volunteers to serve as tutors for the students. By volunteering, individuals have the opportunity to provide extra one-on-one or two-on-one practice to help struggling readers improve their reading abilities. These volunteers play a critical role in helping the students advance their reading skills and achieve success in their educational journey.
Transforming Readers is an essential program that addresses the needs of Kindergarten through 2nd grade students who require additional support in reading. By partnering with the Retired Senior Volunteer Program and Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging, the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne, and Pike Counties are committed to making a positive impact on the educational outcomes of these young learners. Through the dedication of community volunteers, this program strives to equip students with the necessary reading skills for their academic and future success. If you are passionate about education and making a difference in a child's life, Transforming Readers needs your involvement. Join us in fostering a love for reading and empowering these students to reach their full potential.
For more information or if you would like to participate in this program please reach out to either contact down below!
Alvaro Garcia (RSVP Director) - 570-343-1267 ext. 312 or agarcia@uwlc.net
Paul Stefani (Director of Educational Services) - 570-343-1267 ext. 232 or pstefani@uwlc.net
Requirements: Must be able to work with children, commitment of 2 hours a week for 10 weeks, pass required background checks (PA State Police Criminal Background Check, Child Abuse Clearance, FBI Fingerprints).
All clearances are paid through the RSVP program and will not cost the volunteer anything to obtain them.
Transforming Math is a school-based tutoring program that utilizes RSVP volunteers to assist elementary school students reach proficiency in Mathematics.
Tutors work with students individually and in small groups to improve their math skills.
The program is currently being piloted in the Scranton School District at Isaac Tripp Elementary.
For more information or if you would like to participate in this program please reach out to either contact down below!
Alvaro Garcia (RSVP Director) - 570-343-1267 ext. 312 or agarcia@uwlc.net
Paul Stefani (Director of Educational Services) - 570-343-1267 ext. 232 or pstefani@uwlc.net
Requirements: Must be able to work with children, commitment of 2 hours a week for 10 weeks, pass required background checks (PA State Police Criminal Background Check, Child Abuse Clearance, FBI Fingerprints).
All clearances are paid through the RSVP program and will not cost the volunteer anything to obtain them.
Exchange monthly Pen Pal letters to children in one of the local Scranton schools, learn about each other's interests, hobbies, favorite things, etc. The grade currently participating in this program is 4th graders. Letters can be handwritten or typed depending on what the volunteer prefers.
Volunteers are subject to a Pennsylvania State Criminal Background Check in order to participate in the program.
If you want to learn more about the program or have any questions please reach out to:
Paul Stefani (Education Director)
570-343-1267 ext. 232
OR
Alvaro Garcia (RSVP Director)
570-343-1267 ext. 312
STATION: BREADBASKET OF NEPA
VOLUNTEER DUTIES
Volunteer will take food items and package in boxes/packages for distributing to consumers who come to the food pantry. Additional duties may involve shelving food items for storage. Volunteers may be asked to keep pantry area clean. Volunteers may be asked to collect required data from consumers.
AVAILABILITY
Volunteers will be asked to be available on Wednesdays from 9-12. Breadbasket food pantries are only open on Wednesdays. As of January 2021, RSVP volunteers are currently serving at the BB food pantry which is located at Elm Park Church in Scranton.
PARKING
Parking is available in a very small parking lot close to the entrance to the pantry. There is a much larger parking lot available which is located half a block away from the entrance.
MISCELLANEOUS
During the pandemic all volunteers are required to wear masks while at the food pantry.
STATION: CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES/CARBONDALE
VOLUNTEER DUTIES
Volunteer will take food items and package in boxes/packages for distributing to consumers who come to the food pantry. Additional duties may involve shelving food items for storage. Volunteers may also be asked to help keep food pantry areas clean. Volunteers may be asked to collect required data from consumers.
AVAILABILITY
The food pantry is open Monday – Fridays from 9AM – 4PM.
PARKING
Parking is available in a very small parking lot close to the entrance to the pantry.
MISCELLANEOUS
During the pandemic all volunteers will be given masks and gloves to use while at the food pantry. When first volunteering, new volunteer will be assigned a partner to learn volunteer tasks until they are comfortable.
STATION: FRIENDS OF THE POOR
VOLUNTEER DUTIES
Volunteer will take food items and package in boxes/packages for distributing to consumers who come to the food pantry. Additional duties may involve shelving food items for storage. Volunteers may be asked to keep pantry area clean. Volunteers may be asked to collect required data from consumers.
AVAILABILITY
Friends of the Poor’s food pantries are open Monday-Friday from 9:00-4:00. In addition to normal food pantry hours, Friends of the Poor also does a biweekly pop up food pantry and those locations and hours vary within Lackawanna County.
PARKING
Parking is available in a very small parking lot close to the entrance to the pantry.
MISCELLANEOUS
During the pandemic all volunteers are required to wear masks while at the food pantry
STATION: NEIGHBORWORKS OF NEPA
VOLUNTEER DUTIES
Small home repair technician, or a handy person, are needed to assist older adults in small home repairs such as small plumbing leaks and repairs, installing and removal of AC units, step and porch repair, grab bars and railing installations.
AVAILABILITY
As needed.
PARKING
Parking will be dependent on the individual location of the home in need of repairs
MISCELLANEOUS
During the pandemic all volunteers must wear masks while providing any repairs. Every effort will be made to ensure the safety of volunteers while in someone’s home. Homeowners will be screened for any illnesses or exposure to COVID-19 prior to volunteers entering the homes.
STATION: THE SCRANTON CULTURAL CENTER
VOLUNTEER DUTIES
As a member of our Red Coat team, you are considered an Ambassador to the Scranton Cultural Center at the Masonic Temple. Ushers check /scan tickets and assist patrons with finding their seats in the theaters. They hand out programs, manage queues and assist the house managers in specific duties geared to the events.
All our Red Coat volunteers are self-assigned. We adhere to a uniform policy of black pants, white top/ dress shirt, red blazer or cardigan for women and a red tie for men. Closed toe comfortable shoes are a must as standing for long periods of time can be expected.
PARKING
Available on the street with meters checked until 5PM.
MISCELLANEOUS
Masks are required at this time for all volunteers and staff. Certain private events may also require proof of vaccination.
STATION: THE THEATRE AT NORTH
VOLUNTEER DUTIES
An usher is responsible for the customer service of the audience before, during, and after a performance and is mostly situated within the auditorium.
AVAILABILITY
As needed.
PARKING
Free off-street parking is available in their well-lit parking lot located directly behind the building. The parking lot is accessible from Theodore Street off North Main Ave. Please do not park in areas reserved specifically for residents, including the lower lot. Handicap parking spots are available in their main lot. Additional street parking is available on Theodore Street.
MISCELLANEOUS
During the pandemic all volunteers must wear masks while at the theatre. Please note you may be required to stand for periods of time.
STATION: UNITED WAY OF LACKAWANNA & WAYNE COUNTIES
VOLUNTEER DUTIES
Provide free tax return preparation for eligible taxpayers. Establish the greatest degree of public trust, to provide top quality service and uphold the highest of ethical standards.
Volunteers will be required to undergo training and successfully pass a test in order to verify they are familiar with current tax laws. The volunteer will be supported by a CPA who will oversee all tax preparations. Volunteers will use an Intake and Interview form and interview taxpayer to determine if all income, deductions and allowable credits are claimed.
AVAILABILITY
Training will begin as early as December or January and preparers will be needed throughout the tax season.
PARKING
The United Way office is located in the upper level of the JCC. Parking is available in a parking lot next to the building. There is parking available on the street; however, you must feed the meter or you will get a ticket.
MISCELLANEOUS
During the pandemic all volunteers are required to wear masks while in the United Way office. During the pandemic every effort is being made to socially distance in the office.
STATION: UNITED WAY OF LACKAWANNA & WAYNE COUNTIES
VOLUNTEER DUTIES
Provide support to the site and volunteer preparers by screening all taxpayers to ensure the taxpayer has necessary information and documents required to complete a tax return. Screeners cannot answer any tax law questions or determine certification levels unless they are certified in tax law. Volunteers will greet all taxpayers visiting the site to create a pleasant atmosphere.
AVAILABILITY
Volunteers will be needed from the beginning of tax season through the end of the season.
PARKING
Sites will be scattered throughout the county based on the needs in the community. Parking may be available in a parking lot next to the building. There is parking available on the street; however, you must feed the meter or you will get a ticket.
MISCELLANEOUS
During the pandemic all volunteers are required to wear masks while in the at any tax preparation site. During the pandemic every effort is being made to socially distance. Plexi glass barriers will be provided to ensure no contact between you and the taxpayer.
STATION: PA MEDI LUZERNE-WYOMING COUNTIES
ADDRESS: 93 North State St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701
PHONE # / EMAIL: 570-822-1158 EXT: 2395 - StreinM@diakon.org
VOLUNTEER DUTIES
PA MEDI Volunteer to lend a hand to a Medicare Beneficiary make their life a bit easier by helping them with their Medicare health issues. Volunteers to counsel Medicare beneficiaries, complete administrative projects (retrieve phone messages, medication lists, make outreach calls and assist in presentations). Training provided for all opportunities. For certified counselors completion of online modules is required. (Opportunity can be done from home or possibly in the office)
AVAILIBILITY
As needed / schedule based
PARKING
Parking may be available next to building or street parking.
SKILLS REQUIRED
Administrative, Interpersonal, Compassionate, Good Listener, Computer Literate, Organized, Detailed Oriented.
MISCELLANEOUS
Current COVID-19 Guidelines from CDC and the state of PA apply to these opportunities.
LOCATION: JCC (JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER SCRANTON) / ABINGTON LIBRARY
VOLUNTEER DUTIES - KNITTERS
Caring Hands provides a wide variety of knitted items to the community that include anything from hats, scarves, infant clothing, gloves, lap blankets, etc. for all who may need them for the colder months of the year or just in general. If you like to socialize, knit, and want to help the community, this is the place for you!
AVAILABILITY
Knitters either meet on Mondays at the Abington Library or Wednesdays at the JCC. For specific hours you may reach out to the RSVP Director.
PARKING
Next to the building parking lot
SKILLS REQUIRED
Know how to knit
CONTACT INFO: agarcia@uwlc.net / 570-343-1267 ext. 312
ALVARO GARCIA - RSVP DIRECTOR
MISCELLANEOUS
N/A
VOLUNTEER STATION: CEO FOOD BANK
ADDRESS:
PHONE # / EMAIL: 570-500-7578 / DTaylor@ceopeoplehelpingpeople.org
VOLUNTEER DUTIES
Volunteers will help with the distribution of food for local older adults, and other duties.
Shifts are generally 3 hours long
Shifts are most productive with 10-15 volunteers
Shifts are held either at the Wilkes Barre or Pittston location.
Shifts can be scheduled by going to www.ceopeoplehelpingpeople.org
AVAILIBILITY
Schedule Based / As needed
PARKING
Next to building
SKILLS REQUIRED
N/A
MISCELLANEOUS
For more information on duties and skills required please reach out to Debbie at email / phone given above.
Volunteer Station: Dress for Success Lackawanna
Address: The Marketplace at Steamtown, 300 Lackawanna Avenue, #204 Scranton PA 18503
Phone # / Email: 570-941-0339 / lackawanna@dressforsuccess.org
Volunteer Duties
- Assisting clients with employment preparation, image consulting, career coaching
- Clothing donations: inventorying items, stocking floor, sorting
- Answering phones
- Greeting the public
- Ability to complete / fill out paperwork
Skills Required
- Ability to lift up to 20 Ibs
- Ability to stand / sit for extended period of time
- Good communication skills
- Ability to work with diverse population
- Computer Skills (Word / Excel)
Parking
Lower level of the Marketplace - validated parking with ticket / on the street meters free after 5PM
Miscellaneous
N/A
VOLUNTEER STATION: Meals on Wheels of NEPA
Address: 541 Wyoming Ave, Scranton PA 18509
Phone # / Email: 570-346-2421 / lskripka@mownepa.org
Volunteer Duties
Arrive on time at meal delivery location on scheduled day(s) , load coolers (<20 lbs) into vehicle, deliver meals according to route sheet, maintain communication with Meals on Wheels, and follow procedure for meal delivery process.
Requirements
- Pennsylvania State Police background check completed by Meals on Wheels
- Volunteer application completion + submission
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs
- Access to insured vehicle / driver's license (or paired with someone who has a driver's license)
Parking
Street parking meters, free after 5PM
Miscellaneous
N/A
VOLUNTEER STATION: Outreach
Address: 431 N 7th Ave, Scranton PA 18503
Phone # / Email: 570-558-7571 / outreachworks@outreachworks.org
Volunteer Opportunities - Wide variety
- College Internships
- Guest Speakers
- Life Skills Classes
- Work Readiness Classes
- Fundraising
- Special Events
- Short-term Projects
- Recycling Projects
If you would like to learn more about these opportunities please email the RSVP Director or reach out to the email provided above.
Requirements
Individuals may have to go through some background checks before volunteer placement.
Parking
Parking lot next to building
Miscellaneous
N/A
Please click view below
(month, week, etc).
Volunteers, please use the links below to submit your Volunteer Hours
and Mileage Reimbursement.
Thank you!
“Best thing about working with RSVP Volunteers is they have a wealth of experiences. They bring with them talents and responsibilities that make our mission so much easier in achieving.”
Jane Risse, Executive Director, The Greenhouse Project, Nay Aug Park in Scranton, PA, remarking on working with RSVP Volunteers
“The one thing I enjoy the most, is being out in the community. I get to work with all kinds of people, people who I would normally not come in contact with, and I get to help them.”
Rick Lynch, RSVP Volunteer, commenting on his time volunteering through the PA-Medi Program
“You feel you are contributing not only to the individual clients with whom you might be working with, but to the community at large. It connects you to a broader circle of friends and acquaintances.”
Barbara Burkhouse, RSVP Volunteer, reflecting on her time volunteering within the VITA Program
For more information contact:
Alvaro Garcia
RSVP Director
(O) 570.343.1267x312
(F) 570.969.2977
