Michigan Office of Services to the Aging Director, Lynn Alexander, today announced that the Corporation for National Service (CNS) is currently soliciting applications for the sponsorship of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) operating in Crawford and Roscommon Counties.

"The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program is an excellent way for people over the age of 55 to be involved in the community," said Alexander. "There are more than 200 volunteers who participate in this program in Crawford and Roscommon counties."

According to Mary Pfeiler, state director of the Michigan Office of CNS, eligibility to sponsor the RSVP program is open to public agencies and nonprofit organizations who are based either in Crawford or Roscommon Counties. The applicant selected to assume sponsorship of the existing program will be responsible for fiscal management as well as federal regulations, procedures and guidelines that govern RSVP.

Pfeiler says the prospective applicants must have established working relationships with community organizations, experience in developing and supporting volunteer service opportunities, a strong and diverse base of financial support and a commitment to improving the lives of older adults.

An informational meeting held by CNS will take place at 10:00 a.m., February 10, 2000 at the Houghton Lake Senior Center. Application kits, program guidance documents and details of the February informational meeting may be obtained from CNS by calling 3l3-226-7848. Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m., March 25th.

"I’m confident a successor will be found that will enable RSVP in this area to continue to grow and thrive as it is already doing in 30 other counties throughout Michigan," said Pfeiler.

More than half a million RSVP volunteers are involved in over 51,000 community organizations throughout the United States. The Corporation for National Service is the federal government agency which administers national service initiatives. In addition to federal monies, RSVP receives funding through the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging, as well as local funding.