Dove Inc. senior volunteer program at risk of losing funding

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Dove, Inc. has a Retired and Senior Volunteering Program (RSVP) that connects people over 55 with volunteering opportunities in Macon and DeWitt counties. However, the program is at risk if federal funding is not renewed by March 31.

RSVP Program Director Angie Williams explained that RSVP receives roughly $72,000 per year via federal funding. But since the government shutdown, they have not been notified of opportunities to reapply for their grant.

RSVP's state funding runs out at the end of June, and re-applying for state funding is dependent on federal funding.

"After that, we really have no clue. If we don't have federal funds, we won't get the state grant as well. RSVP will go away for this community entirely," Williams said.

RSVP has 319 volunteers, and they serve 51 different community volunteer stations. It uses federal funds to provide meals and insurance to its volunteers, strengthen recruitment efforts and pay salaries for core staff at RSVP.

However, Williams said the lack of funding won't deter their dedicated group of volunteers.

"Our volunteers won't stop volunteering even if RSVP goes away. They are very dedicated and so appreciated. They are really the backbone of the community," Williams said.

RSVP has a Community Discussion scheduled at 1 p.m. Feb. 11 at the First Evangelical Lutheran Church at 250 W Decatur Street.

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