by Jody Barnes

Created on: June 05, 2008   Last Updated: June 11, 2008

By volunteering, baby boomers can share their skills and talents with others, improve their communities, and even improve their own lives. In fact, a study conducted by Johns Hopkins indicated that people who volunteer live longer and have a better quality of life than those who do not.

Sacramento needs volunteers to support the community and to improve the quality of life for its residents. The County Cemetery Commission needs volunteers to photo-document historical tombstones, the Military Museum needs preservation and research volunteers, and Rebuilding Together needs helping hands to help install smoke detectors, grab-bars, and other safety equipment in seniors' homes.

For people over fifty, countless volunteer opportunities can be found through the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP), a not-for-profit organization that matches potential volunteers to organizations in the Sacramento area. RSVP is a locally sponsored component of the National Senior Service Corps, also known as SeniorCorps, a federally supported program that helps connect seniors to volunteer opportunities.

Sacramento benefits from the 600 RSVP volunteers who help more than 170 local agencies. Volunteers have served as court appointed special advocates for abused children; provided countless educational programs and tours at museums and historical sites; and have helped feed thousands of residents in need. Sacramento relies on RSVP volunteers every single day.

There are volunteer opportunities in Sacramento for everyone over the age of 50. The sheriff's office requires volunteers for a wide range of services both in the community and in the office. Chess players are being sought to help an elementary school chess club. Garden enthusiasts are needed to plant native vegetation and assist local organizations with lawn and garden care. Computer whizzes are needed to provide technology assistance for a range of projects. There are volunteer opportunities for crafters, home-improvement buffs, business people, or counselors, and there are even opportunities for dedicated homebodies to contribute their time without leaving their living rooms. Additionally, RSVP's volunteer service coordinator works one-on-one with interested individuals to find ways to share their valuable life experiences in service to the community.

To find a rewarding volunteer experience and find out more about RSVP, visit their website at www.rsvpsacramento.org, or speak to the volunteer coordinator at (916) 875-3631.

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