For the truly active senior one can turn to the volunteer activities which are offered through the Foster Grandparent Program, the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, and the Senior Companion Program. The Foster Grandparent Program matches low-income older persons with children who need personal attention and special help in schools, hospitals, juvenile detention facilities, day care centers, community programs and private homes. Fost Grandparents serve 20 hours per week and, in return for services, receive a tax-free stipend which does not affect other benefits or services they may be receiving.
The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) provides the opportunity for persons over the age of 55 to serve their communities, explore new interests and stay active. With the help of RSVP, non-profit organizations are able to enhance and expand the services they provide.
The Senior Companion Program is a person-to-person enterprise built on the age-old tradition of neighbor helping neighbor. Senior companions support thousands of older persons with developmental disabilities. Alzheimer's disease, mental illness, and/or other conditions which make them frail and at risk.
More information is available on the Senior Volunteer Programs and services in Michigan.