The nevada rural counties rsvp program, INC. (NV rural rsvp) is a self-sponsored 501 (c)(3) organization with a volunteer board of directors that has been serving rural nevada counties for over 43…

The nevada rural counties rsvp program, INC. (NV rural rsvp) is a self-sponsored 501 (c)(3) organization with a volunteer board of directors that has been serving rural nevada counties for over 43 years. NV rural rsvp has a demonstrated record of outstanding service which has improved the lives of seniors and strengthened communities through service and volunteering; and helped nevada?s elders remain independent at home where they can age in place, maintain a healthy quality of life, and remain a vital part of their communities. Rsvp?s mission is to help frail, homebound, and low-income seniors remain independent by providing high quality programs which allow them to stay in their own homes with dignity. Additionally, rsvp coordinates a volunteer network of seniors who use their skills and talents to provide support to community agencies and address community needs through service. NV rural rsvp's independent living programs include: escorted transportation, home companion, resistance exercise training, respite care, legal aid, personal emergency response system(s), veterans volunteers in partnership (VIP), homemaker services, and senior nutrition. These effective programs were implemented to address the increasing number of low-income seniors that are unable to access the basic resources, goods and services, healthcare and other essential services. Furthermore, this population is at high risk for costly institutionalization, creating a heavy burden on local economies and already stretched government resources for medicare, medicaid and nursing homes. NV rural rsvp will meet the health needs of older adults through four core independent living services in the cncs healthy futures focus area and other community priorities areas. Project activities address supporting the ability of homebound older adults, adults with disabilities and veterans to live independently. NV rural rsvp program volunteers will serve in a diverse range of activities to ensure the best outcomes for this population and to help meet our community?s greatest challenges. Activities include: 1) escorted round-trip transportation, 2) companionship, 3) food distribution and delivery, and 4) veterans resources, suicide prevention and awareness activities, and referrals to supportive services; 5) in addition, volunteers will have served in a diverse range of activities to support community needs through service.