Columbus, Georgia

Agenda Item # 2



Columbus Consolidated Government



Council Meeting



03/02/2004



Agenda Report # 159



TO: Mayor and Council



SUBJECT: The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)



INITIATED BY: Parks and Recreation







Recommendation: Request approval to submit an application and accept

federal funding for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).



Background: A continuing resolution has been authorized by Columbus

Council each spring since the inception of RSVP in 1973. The RSVP of Columbus

provides opportunities for senior adults from all backgrounds, ages 55 and

above, to utilize their knowledge, experience, and talents in meaningful

volunteer service to the community.



The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is jointly funded by the City

of Columbus and The Corporation for National and Community Service, which is

the federal sponsor. RSVP continues to respond to the changing needs of the

community. Currently, there are approximately 300 active volunteers who render

approximately 45,000 service hours annually at 35 volunteer stations in

Columbus and Ft. Benning. Some of the referenced sites are: The Columbus

Museum, Meals on Wheels, The Mayor's Office, The Government Center, Columbus

Police Department, Girl Scouts, Martin Army Hospital and The Columbus

Convention and Visitors Bureau.



Financial Considerations: The total project cost for the 04-05 Project Year is

estimated to be $81,114, of which $31,478 is estimated to be the federal share

and up to $49,636 is estimated to be the local share. The local funds have

been requested in the City's 05 budget. The period of the program application

is July 1 2004 through June 30, 2005.



Legal Considerations: Council approves by resolution all grant applications.



Recommendations/ Actions: Request approval to submit an application and

accept federal funding for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).