Editor’s Note: The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program is a referral service designed to place volunteers in non-profit organizations, where their knowledge and skills positively impact the community and individuals served. The following article is a part of a monthly series by RSVP, highlighting the community based involvement and service of RSVP volunteers.
In an executive order Jan. 29, 2001, President George W. Bush acknowledged that for years, faith-based organizations have traditionally played a valuable role in meeting the needs of Americans.
In Clearfield County, Young People Who Care, established in 1976, assists people in need. Among the services they provide involving RSVP volunteers is the Marian House, an emergency shelter for women and children in crisis.
Since 1982, the Marian House has provided temporary shelter and assistance to women and children in need of help. People come to the Marian House because they are homeless, evicted, pregnant or victims of crime, such as domestic violence or sexual assault.
The shelter provides meals, clothing and assistance in obtaining needed services. The consumers have supportive counseling, support groups, a safe environment and also educational workshops to help prepare for a better future. By providing a quiet and nurturing environment, the Marian House staff and volunteers work to empower each woman to make positive decisions on her future.
Volunteers at the Marian House assist with various tasks and serve as “house mothers.” Duties may include answering the door, answering the telephone, assisting with kitchen duties and generally helping out as needed. Also, volunteers use their talents and skills to provide workshops, such as teaching the guests how to knit, crotchet or sew, how to use a computer, etc. These workshops help to build self-esteem and teach skills for personal growth.
RSVP volunteer, Joanne Fitzmaurice, has been a member of RSVP since 2004. She has been a volunteer for the Marian House much longer. In fact, she has been volunteering at the Marian House for more than 25 years. She has developed a rapport with the guests and enjoys helping out.
Sister Ruth Ann Madera is the director of the Marian House. When asked about the volunteers who donate their time at the shelter she stated, “RSVP volunteers are of the greatest importance and value to the Marian House program, as they assist staff in the daily operations of making the ministry happen.
“Volunteers can often be seen working with the guests, answering the door, doing office work, sorting donations and helping with cooking and general housekeeping. They give the support needed to maintain this much needed ministry for homeless women and children. We are most grateful for all their generosity of giving of their time and talents for others.”
The annual Blueberry Festival, held at the Bethany Retreat in Frenchville supports all the ministries of Young People Who Care. This year, the festival will be July 27 – 28. Along with the live music, games, food and ice cream, attendees will find many volunteers working the festival.
Madera would welcome more volunteers who could donate just a couple of hours each week. Scheduling is flexible. Volunteers could take guests grocery shopping, share housekeeping and or cooking skills or be a mentor.
If you are interested in learning more about the volunteer opportunities at the Marian House or if you have a special talent or skill you would like to share, please contact the RSVP office at (814) 765-2226 or 1-800-225-8571.
July Volunteer Corner
SPECIAL PROJECTS: Do you want to volunteer, but not be committed to a long-term assignment? RSVP has special projects that are seasonal but still have a great impact on the community. Some examples are sewing quilts for children who are in traumatic situations, preparing special mailings for organizations or singing and visiting in a local nursing/personal care home.
BE A “PAL”: Are you a college graduate? Would you like to make a difference in someone’s life? The Pennsylvania Adult Literacy (PAL) volunteer tutor program is looking for volunteers to help adults learn basic skills necessary to improve job prospects or prepare for the GED. Volunteers are also needed to assist in computer labs, with phone calls, or assembling newsletters.
ANIMAL TRANSPORT DRIVER: Do you like animals? Do you enjoy driving? Volunteers are needed to assist a local animal clinic transport rescue animals from shelters/rescue organizations to the clinic, and then return them after treatment. The transport vehicle is provided. Volunteer must have current driver’s license, ability to work independently, be flexible and maintain accurate records.
If you are interested in any of the above volunteer opportunities or would like to learn more about RSVP, please call the RSVP office at (814) 765-2226 or 1-800-225-8571.
RSVP is sponsored and partially funded by the Clearfield County Area Agency on Aging Inc. Additional funding is provided by the Corporation for National and Community Service, the Clearfield and DuBois United Way agencies, memorials and contributions.