Mission Statement
The West Texas RSVP has the dual purpose of engaging persons 55 and older in volunteer service to meet critical community needs, and providing a high quality experience that will enrich the lives of volunteers and those they serve.
ORIGIN OF RSVP
The West Texas Rehab Center was the prior local sponsor for the Big Country RSVP (1973) and the Concho Valley RSVP (1981) in their respective communities of Abilene and San Angelo. In July 2013, the two programs were merged and became the West Texas RSVP, still maintaining offices in both San Angelo and Abilene under the sponsorship of West Texas Rehab. As of April 2020, the local sponsor became the Concho Valley Council of Governments in San Angelo.
WAHT IS RSVP?
The West Texas RSVP has the dual purpose of engaging persons 55 and older in volunteer service to meet critical community needs; and to provide a high quality experience that will enrich the lives of volunteers. RSVP promotes the engagement of older persons as community resources in planning for community improvement and delivery of volunteer services. Through RSVP, older adults discover uses for their creativity, their energy and their expertise. RSVP involves seniors in service, matching their personal interests, skills and lifelong learning experiences to the volunteer needs within nonprofit organizations and public agencies.
RSVP is funded through grants from AmeriCorps and the State of Texas and is sponsored locally by the Concho Valley Council of Governments. RSVP also receives in-kind donations, memorials and general community support.
WHO QUALIFIES TO BE AN RSVP VOLUNTEER?
Any person 55 years of age and older who wishes to share their experience, knowledge and skills is eligible to join RSVP. There are no restrictions based on education, income, or experience, nor any membership dues. Anyone who wants to feel useful, needed, and appreciated will profit from becoming part of the RSVP network. For persons new to San Angelo RSVP serves as an excellent vehicle for making new friends and becoming involved in the community.