More than 600 clothing items – a record amount – was collected in the recent ‘Make A Difference Day’ project hosted by the West River Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP+). The donated winter apparel was collected for the veterans at the Cornerstone Mission.
“The effort was another great success,” said Ann Hines, West River RSVP+ director. “These items make a real difference in the lives of the veterans throughout the area. The community again responded to the call for items.”
‘Make A Difference Day’ is a nationwide effort to promote volunteerism in communities. For several years, the West River RSVP+ program has promoted collection of winter apparel items for veterans at the Cornerstone facility. The collection drive sought gently-used or new coats and hoodies, sweatshirts and t-shirts along with new socks and underwear, along with gloves.
The local RSVP+ operates through a federal grant and the City of Rapid City has served as the program’s sponsor for more than 35 years. The program has more than 500 volunteers age 55 and over, who contribute more than 10,000 hours of community service each month to Rapid City and area communities. Volunteers provide service including teaching children and adults to read, mentoring children, delivering meals to home bound seniors, and much-needed support to various local non-profit agencies.
For more information about the donation drive or RSVP+, contact the RSVP Office at 605-394-2507.
