Volunteerism helps make the world go round – particularly at the Cranston Senior Centers. 

Last week, the Cranston Senior Services Department held a special luncheon to thank the cadre of volunteers from the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, known as RSVP.

Held at Fresco restaurant on Comstock Parkway, the lunch recognized the time and talents contributed by volunteers that helps to enhance the services and programs center offers. Being a part of the program also means new opportunities for both volunteers and those that benefit from their services.

Tricia Cipriano, Director of the program, said it helps provide a sense of purpose to seniors who still have much to offer. 

“I firmly believe that socialization helps prevents isolation,” she said.  “And this program benefits those that are giving their time as well as those that are benefitting from their volunteerism.”

She said that there are more than 80 RSVP volunteers involved with the Senior Center. They help to serve meals, give rides to seniors who don’t have transportation, or share their skills to teach classes or run recreational programs.

The program is part of AmeriCorps which states that it pairs thousands of Americans, age 55 or older with a wide variety of organizations across the country in order to empower them to make changes in their home communities.

“Volunteers are what make Cranston special,” Mayor Kenneth Hopkins said in addressing the crowd.  “Thank you for the quality of life we have here…and thank you for helping make our senior center the best in the state.”