Opportunities From: Volunteer Iowa

RSVP Volunteers prepare income taxes for low-income and elderly populations using TaxSlayer computer software. This program is important because everyone is required to pay taxes, people can't afford to pay a professional tax preparer, and tax laws are complicated, confusing, and ever-changing. Time Commitment: you pick the time for the (9 am-4 pm) 2-3 days a week February- Mid-April, plus testing in January Requirements: Passing IRS certified, be able to communicate well and complete mathematics.

RSVP Volunteers help assist eligible clients with the rent reimbursement claim form and answer any questions they might have. RSVP is listed as the primary contact for Jasper County on the Iowa Department Revenue Website for Rent Reimbursement Assistance. The Rent Reimbursement program allows Iowa residents to file a claim for reimbursement for rent paid during the ear if they meet the set of guidelines. Time commitment: The program generally runs from January- June of each year. Hours vary between 1-5 hours a month. Requirements: Technological savvy, great customer service.

RSVP Volunteers help with adopting a trail, planting seeds, cleaning seeds, working in the bookstore, and more!!! The Refuge teaches Iowans the history of the land and teaches youth to protect the environment. Time commitment: Minimum of 2 hours a week to a maximum of 40 hours a week. Set your own schedule with the Refuge. Requirements: n/a

RSVP Volunteers work with non-profit organizations and individual community members in various capacities to improve our community. This program provides aid to nonprofits or individuals who can't afford to pay someone to help with certain vital jobs. Time Commitment: Set your own schedule with the organization, max of 10 hours a week. Requirements: Clerical work (as requested) such as record keeping, opening mail, and answering phones.

In a learning and play environment, RSVP Volunteers interact and develop positive relationships with young children while assisting classroom teachers with daily activities as needed. Headstart Volunteering is important to prepare children for kindergarten, learn through play and interaction with others, and give the children a chance to interact one on one with many adults. Time commitment: TBD Requirements: TBD

RSVP Volunteers correspond with Baxter Elementary students via written and mailed letters. Using the Pen Pal Program, this program helps students develop their written language and writing skills. All Communication skills are essential to academics. Time commitment: 1 letter written to 1 student per month September- May "Meet & Greet" in May at Baxter Elementary to meet your pen pal in person. Requirements: One short introduction Biography about yourself. Legiable handwriting for students to read.

Jasper County Ride Volunteers provide rides to and from vital medical appointments to community members who have no other means to get there. This is an important program as there is a lack of affordable transportation, which leaves people without the ability to seek the following care: Medical, Dental, Vision, Counseling, and medication.

Time Commitment: 1-2 rides/ week. You set your own schedule. It can be year-round or just seasonal.

Requirements: A valid driver's license, current proof of insurance, and a vehicle that can safely transport you and the client.

RSVP Volunteers listen to 3 students read out loud to them for 20 minutes each, 60 minutes total, per week. Students from Aurora Heights, Emerson Hough, Berg Middle, Woodrow Wilson, Thomas Jefferson, Newton Christian, and Prarie City Schools participate in this program. This program is important as it helps the students build a reading foundation for their education at a young age.