AmeriCorps Week: Retired & Senior Volunteer Program

Fast Facts: Food Insecurity in Colorado

According to the USDA, more than 34 million people, including 9 million children, in the United States are food insecure. Feeding America estimates that food insecurity in Colorado increased by nearly 20% due to the pandemic. It also particularly increased among families with children and communities of color, who already faced hunger at much higher rates before the pandemic. In Colorado, 1 in 10 people—more than 566,000 of our friends and neighbors, 147,120 of them children— are unable to access the food they need.

Every community in our state is home to families who face hunger, including rural and suburban communities. Many households that experience food insecurity do not qualify for federal nutrition programs and need to rely on their local Colorado food banks for support.

(Source: FeedingColorado.org)

Bridging the Gap: Spark’s RSVP

Many of our most vulnerable people are aging at home, often alone and disconnected from others. The Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is a national initiative by AmeriCorps Seniors and one of the largest volunteer efforts in the nation for people 55 and over. RSVP matches older adults who are willing to help with local organizations on the front lines of meeting community needs.

National Service creates local impact. Spark the Change Colorado operates the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) in 6 Colorado counties: Alamosa, Huerfano, Montezuma, Park, Jefferson, and Broomfield. Spark’s county RSVP programs focus on  Food Insecurity. RSVP is growing, sparking connections, engaging volunteers, and igniting collaborations across the state. Learn more about how to support and empower RSVP here:  https://www.sparkthechangecolorado.org/rsvp

How YOU Can Help!

RSVP provides necessary services through the support, engagement, and giving of community change makers like you. We ask that you lead with your passions and dedicate to supporting a cause that means something to you. If combatting food insecurity and creating opportunities for connection for older adults is something that you feel passionate about, consider giving to Spark the Change Colorado and our Retired & Senior Volunteer Program.

Ways to Give

Join the Movement of Good — It’s the Colorado Way! Spark a Connection in the following ways:

1. You can make a donation: if you’d like to support our efforts as an organization, or allocate your gift directly to RSVP.
2. You can volunteer: We are currently recruiting RSVP Volunteers in our service areas. Join our team of change makers by volunteering today!
3. You can become a Spark Member:  Do you represent an organization that regularly recruits volunteers? Become a Spark Member and access benefits and opportunities to support your volunteer program!
4. You can learn more about us and our programs: Knowledge is power, and only YOU know what your community needs! Learn more about our programs and opportunities so you can spread the word and become an ambassador for your local community. 
5. You can Join our Emailing Lists: Stay up-to-date on all things Spark by joining our email lists!