RSVP collect needed items for MLK Day of Service

For Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Day of Service” on Jan. 18, Retired and Senior Volunteers (RSVP) set up at various locations in Newton collecting much needed personal care items for the local Salvation Army.

RSVP chose to collect personal care items because they are often overlooked and often carry a higher price tag than other food pantry items.

Thank you to all those who donated. The community response was overwhelming. Thank you to Fareway and Hy-Vee for hosting our volunteers. Finally, thank you to the following volunteers: Violet Bakalar, Butch Hedberg, Julia Higgins, Verneil Knott, Bud Langmaid, Larry Pauley, Mildred Rawlins, Linda Schafer, Jim Tracy, Meredith Tracy and Arlene VanVoorhis.

MLK Day of Service is one day that RSVP volunteers are active in the community, but you will find RSVP volunteers helping in other ways throughout the year. Whether it’s reading to a student with our HEART program (Help Engage a Reader Today), transporting eligible clients to medical appointments in or out of the county with our Jasper County RIDE program, or offering free tax preparation services for low/middle income families and elderly clients at DMACC (coming to you beginning Tuesday), our volunteers are there, filling a need. Our volunteers help the City of Newton ensure that the warning sirens are in good working order, as well as assisting the Chamber of Commerce, Neal Smith Wildlife Refuge, Skiff Medical Center, and Jasper County Elderly Nutrition. They also visit shut ins and help with many other unsung programs in Jasper County.

Volunteers are always needed. You can make a difference starting right in here in Jasper County. Come see Donita or Denice at RSVP in the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach office located at DMACC or call us at 641-792-6433.