Nationwide, community organizations rely on volunteers to tackle some of our toughest challenges. Did you know that seniors provide a huge amount of support to causes across America – In fact, more than 200,000 older adults participate in Senior Corps programs each year!
The work that senior volunteers do in their communities is so impactful to the quality of life for many Americans. That’s why we take time each year to recognize their dedication and accomplishments.
National Service Recognition Day is a special initiative of the Corporation for National and Community Service that occurs on the first Tuesday in April. This year, National Service Recognition Day is April 7, 2020.
Can you find a way to celebrate service in your community? Learn more about National Service Recognition Day to find out how you can get involved.
What is Recognition Day for national service?
On National Service Recognition Day, thousands of local leaders take time to honor AmeriCorps members and Senior Corps volunteers by participating in recognition events, issuing official proclamations, and taking to social media in a nationwide show of appreciation.
Mayors and city leaders, county officials, and Tribal leaders across the country are using national service more and more to solve problems in their communities. On Recognition Day, these local elected officials thank national service members for making their communities stronger.
How Recognition Day got started
National Service Recognition Day, from its founding in 2013 to 2017, was formerly known as Mayor’s Day, then known jointly as Mayor and County Recognition Day for National Service and Tribal Day of Recognition for National Service.
In 2018, the name changed to National Service Recognition Day. This change was instituted for simplicity’s sake, but also because a growing number of state representatives, police chiefs, and even U.S. Representatives and Senators signed on to participate throughout the years.
Today, National Service Recognition Day has grown into a largely celebrated event across America. Local and national organizations, government officials, and individuals come together to celebrate the great impact volunteers have on the everyday lives of the American people.
VANTAGE RSVP of Summit & Medina Counties
On National Service Recognition Day and the weeks leading to it, VANTAGE Aging recognizes the members of its Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Summit & Medina Counties.
A program of Senior Corps and funded by CNCS, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program is the largest volunteer group in the nation for people age 55 and older. Volunteers use their time and talents to tackle community challenges.
Last year in Ohio, CNCS invested $42,700,000 in 1,300 AmeriCorps members and Senior Corps volunteers. In Summit & Medina Counties, VANTAGE Aging engages over 100 Retired and Senior Volunteer Program volunteers who make a difference at local and national community-based organizations.
These volunteers deliver a focused impact on food security, environmental awareness, workforce opportunities, capacity building, isolation, and the opioid crisis, with more than 13,400 hours of service in 2019.
How VANTAGE is celebrating National Service Recognition Day
To honor the RSVP volunteers of Summit and Medina Counties, VANTAGE Aging is hosting a recognition luncheon on April 7, 2020, in Akron.
Community leaders are encouraged to attend in support of national and local service efforts. More information can be found on the RSVP Recognition Day event page. You can also register to participate in National Service Recognition Day with the Corporation for National and Community Service.
If you 55 years or older, live in Summit or Medina County and are interested in volunteering, contact VANTAGE RSVP to get started. We will match your interests and availability with one of our partnering nonprofits. You will also get access to training opportunities, socializing events, and free admission to the Recognition Day luncheon!
To register for VANTAGE’s RSVP recognition event or ask questions, please contact us at 330-253-4597 or info@vantageaging.org.
*The information in this article is intended solely to provide general information on matters of interest for the personal use of the reader, who accepts full responsibility for its use. This article should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional legal, medical, or other competent advisors.