MUSCATINE, Iowa — United Way Muscatine County is proud to announce the launch of the AmeriCorps Seniors Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), a new initiative that invites adults aged 55 and older to make a lasting difference through meaningful volunteer service across Muscatine County.
The RSVP program will connect senior volunteers with opportunities that address key community needs in education, environmental stewardship, economic opportunity, and housing stability. United Way aims to recruit 60 volunteers in its first phase to serve in the following focus areas:
Ongoing Volunteer Opportunities
- Reading Mentors in Local Elementary Schools
Volunteers will work one-on-one or in small groups with K–3 students to strengthen literacy skills and foster a love of reading. The effort aims to help reverse a 19% decline in third-grade reading proficiency seen since the pandemic, while improving academic success and attendance. - Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
Volunteers will provide free tax preparation for low-income individuals and families, helping them access eligible refunds and avoid costly predatory tax services.
Special Event Opportunities (e.g., Day of Caring)
- Debris Removal from Parks and Public Lands
Volunteers will partner with Muscatine County Conservation and local municipalities to clear litter and debris from more than 2,300 acres of public land—preserving natural spaces and enhancing community beauty. - Minor Home Repairs for Seniors and Disabled Residents
Volunteers will assist with essential home maintenance projects such as weatherizing, painting, and removing safety hazards to help vulnerable residents remain safely and comfortably in their homes.
“Muscatine County is full of caring, capable individuals who want to give back,” said Mason Kopf, Program Manager for RSVP. “This program gives adults 55-plus the chance to use their skills and experience to uplift our community. Together, we can make a lasting difference.”
Supported by a federal AmeriCorps investment, the RSVP program will deliver measurable outcomes over its three-year grant period, including:
- Improved reading performance for 345 students
- Debris removal from 500 acres of public land
- More than $60,000 in tax refunds for local families
With decades of experience mobilizing volunteers and leading community initiatives, United Way Muscatine County is uniquely equipped to manage the RSVP program and provide the training, support, and coordination needed for volunteer success.
United Way Muscatine County is now enrolling volunteers for the AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP program. Interested individuals can contact Mason Kopf at 563-223-8497 or mason@unitedwaymuscatine.org
Learn more and sign up at volunteermuscatine.org.
About United Way Muscatine County
United Way Muscatine County mobilizes resources to empower the greater Muscatine community and improve the lives of people in need. Through partnerships with local organizations, the organization focuses on increasing household independence through education, housing, and volunteer engagement. Together with donors, volunteers, and advocates, United Way builds a stronger, more connected Muscatine County.