Non-profit finds expanded purpose amidst pandemic

LISBON -- Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the need for volunteers has never been greater; however, programs like RSVP find them few and far behind due to the perceived risks.

That has required a little creativity from people like Marti Leake, who coordinates the Retired Senior Volunteer programs in Columbiana and Jefferson counties. She wants to satisfy that need while keeping her volunteers safe.

The program provides aid to senior citizens as well as community service.

Family and Community Services, a non-profit based out of Portage County, operates the local chapters that has spent more than six decades helping individuals meet their basic needs and encouraging volunteerism.

Amidst the pandemic, that volunteerism can range anything from organizing food distributions to making homemade medical masks. Even a phone call to a shut-in can provide some comfort to survive the isolation.

During a recent food distribution in Lisbon, people age 55 and older received flyers on how if they were crafty they could join the group effort to make the masks from their home.

More than 70 volunteers have given $81,500 worth of 3,205 service hours throughout Columbiana County, Leake said. This included service as school mentors, food delivery, pantries and transporting those in need.

Background checks are required on volunteers, who receive supplemental insurance, mileage reimbursement and just good feelings for serving their community.

Sires include the Salvation Army, local schools and community centers.

Recently to make up for volunteer shortages, Ohio National Guard members were dispatched to assist RSVP members at a food distribution site.

RSVP volunteer Lynn Holshue chairs the pantry operation at First United Methodist Church in Lisbon, where clients received boxes of items like canned goods and ramen noodles as well as a pork loin roast, produce and baked goods in addition to the Ohio Pet donated kibble for the family pet.

Last year, the agency assisted more than 100,000 people in northeast Ohio, while Marti Leake coordinates the county.

This also includes medication assistance for persons of any age whose prescriptions are creating financial hardship at one of their satellite sites: 10 a.m. to noon First United Methodist Church in Lisbon (first Wednesday) and First Christian Church in Wellsville (third Wednesday) or the RSVP office.

For more information about RSVP, call 330-424-7877.