Winter 2013 Newsletter - Page 5

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As you read on the previous page, RSVP has a new coordinator of its CCC Program. At this time, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our out-going coordinator Joel Becker. The passion, commitment and personal time Joel has given to this program is without compare! We’re happy to say that Joel is not leaving the program; he’s just changing direction to allow for some much-needed time for family, friends and relaxation! On the following lines, Joel shares some of his thoughts about RSVP and the Community Computer Connections Program.

I first met Pegi Orsino to discuss the possibility of RSVP sponsoring a program which I had founded to provide computers free of charge to low-income families on Long Island. It was a “go” from the start! I brought with me several volunteers and some equipment from a previous incarnation. RSVP provided publicity, funding, office space and office volunteer support. The name Community Computer Connections Program (CCCP) was established, and we were in business!

Since then, we’ve delivered computers to over 2,500 families and individuals. Over 40 volunteers are currently actively involved in the program, and it continues to grow!

About a year ago, I decided that I wanted to step back from active coordination of this program and spend my time supporting it in other ways. After nine months of searching, we found the ideal successor – Allen Schwartz. Allen and I have worked together for several months in a transition period, and I have confidence that under him, the program will thrive!

While I’m neither leaving CCCP nor RSVP, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those who have made this a very satisfying period of my life – all of the volunteers who have worked so hard and many of whom I consider personal friends, the CCCP advisory committee, Irene and her office staff, Betty DeSimone, and, of course, Pegi Orsino, without whom this would not have happened.

Volunteer Opportunies

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service needs volunteers in several different areas of its beautiful, new L.I. National Wildlife Refuge Complex Center, located in Shirley. Volunteers are needed in the center as greeters and in the Nature Store, as well as helping Invasive Species Control, Landscape and Trail Maintenance. Come out of hibernation early and help! Various positions carry various hour needs, so call Sue at ext. 15 for further information. Fresh air and helping in the community - it’s a win/win!

Fire Island National Seashore is also looking for volunteers to assist in several different areas of this fragile landscape, particularly after Super Storm Sandy. Call Sue at ext. 15 for more information.

Long Island Head Start is in need of volunteers to assist in the classrooms with pre-school activities. Help get these little ones ready for a more formal academic environment while remaining in your community. Call Maureen for more information at ext.16.

Habitat for Humanity has many opportunities for anyone who wishes to help provide single decent shelters for those in need and those families left homeless by natural disasters. Volunteers are needed as construction leaders or to help in the ReStore (Ronkonkoma), a home improvement outlet which sells new and used building supplies as well as home cleaning products. Please contact Sue at extension 15 if interested.