‘It’s about helping people feel good about themselves’

Thank you for all the dedication. Thank you for all the time. Thank you for the compassion. And thank you for so many smiles.

Last week, the Cranston Senior Services Department held a special luncheon to thank the cadre of volunteers whose time and talents contribute so much to the services and programs it offers. Held at Fresco restaurant on Comstock Parkway, the lunch was for volunteers in the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, known as RSVP.

The RSVP program matches people over the age of 55 with volunteer opportunities that allow them to use their skills and talents to help other seniors. Their contributions in Cranston are varied, with volunteers dedicating time to drive other seniors, serve meals, or run a variety of programs that include education, exercise or just pure entertainment.

“It’s about prevention isolation and promoting socialization,” said Tricia Cipriano, Director of the RSVP program. “It’s about helping people feel good about themselves — whether they are volunteers or the recipients of their services.”

According to Cipriano, there are approximately 85 active volunteers the RSVP program, which is part of AmericaCorps. Many volunteer their time at the City’s busy senior center at 1070 Cranston St.

Mayor Kenneth Hopkins thanked the volunteers for all that they do, noting that because of their efforts, the City can best support and serve its senior population.

“We cannot be supportive as a City without having the best volunteers going,” Hopkins said.

It was clear at the “thank you” lunch that the volunteers have also forged many friendships among themselves and that they enjoy helping others. Many have been participating in the RSVP program for years and are well-known for the programs they run or services they offer.

“I’m Mr. Bingo,” Ken Deport said with a laugh. Every week, he and his wife, Suzanne, help run the popular game at the senior center.

As the volunteers dined on a multi-course meal, Stephen Craddock, Executive Director of Cranston Senior Services, stopped at the tables and thanked people for the contributions they make. “They are such a positive influence on just about everything we do,” he said. “We are excited to be here today and say, ‘thank you’ to them.”

Editor’s Note: Beacon Media freelance writer and photographer Barbara Polichetti is also a volunteer at the Cranston Senior Center, helping to chronicle the many activities there.