In an effort to sustain essential services for senior citizens, local organizations in Champaign are consolidating resources after the closure of the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). The program, which had operated for 52 years, ended due to the loss of federal AmeriCorps grant funding. In response, Family Service is integrating the Stevick Senior Citizen Center’s operations into its own facilities.
Transitioning to Family Service
Family Service Executive Director Nicole Dowling announced that the RSVP program, previously based at the Stevick Senior Citizen Center located at 2102 Windsor Place, will now be housed at Family Service’s headquarters at 405 S. State St. in Champaign. Dowling stated that the staff responsible for RSVP also managed the Stevick Senior Center, prompting her to propose the merger.
The Stevick Center board approved the move, and renovations are currently underway to facilitate the transition. Board President Tracy Nally highlighted the significance of the Stevick Senior Center, describing it as “an institution in Champaign County for decades.” Nally emphasized that relocating to Family Service will allow for a more central and accessible location, enhancing the center’s versatility and inclusivity.
Impact on Volunteers and Services
The discontinuation of the RSVP program has resulted in the loss of nearly 60,000 volunteer hours across Champaign and Douglas counties. Family Service has over 400 volunteers involved in various initiatives, having worked with more than 100 volunteer sites in the area. Although the RSVP program has ceased to exist under its original name, its essence continues through the newly established Family Service Volunteer Program, which will maintain many of the previous volunteer placements.
In addition to the consolidated operations, the Stevick Center previously facilitated a program called Food for Seniors, which provides 160 to 180 seniors in Champaign County with essential groceries. These bags are delivered bi-weekly to seniors who may struggle with food stamp benefits or simply need additional support to get by.
As Family Service takes on the responsibilities of the former RSVP program, it is actively seeking donations from the community to support facility renovations and cover expenses previously funded by the grant. The new Stevick Senior Center at Family Service will offer a variety of services, including Aging Services Navigation and Mental Health/Reducing Social Isolation programs.
The Aging Services Navigation program assists seniors in accessing resources that promote independent living, including meal delivery services, volunteer transportation, and caregiver support. One notable initiative, Creativity on Wheels, aims to combat social isolation by delivering monthly boxes filled with art supplies and engaging activities.
“We included a project called ‘tell your story,’” Dowling explained. “This allows seniors to reflect on their lives through journaling and keeps them connected with volunteers who provide companionship.” Volunteers not only deliver these boxes but also check on participants, offering a friendly conversation that can be a vital connection for some.
Family Service also provides mental health counseling to residents starting from the age of ten, ensuring a wide range of support for the community. Champaign County residents interested in contributing to the ongoing project can find more information at FamServCC.org/support-stevick.
