Your VIDHS Episode 9 - SCSEP/FGP/RSVP

Welcome to Episode 9 of "Your VIDHS," the official podcast of the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services! 🎙️
In this episode, we dive deep into the incredible opportunities available for our senior community through three impactful programs: the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), the Foster Grandparents Program, and the Retired Service Volunteer Program (RSVP). Join us as we explore how these initiatives are enriching the lives of our seniors and the wider community.
*Summary:*
In this episode, Ryan Nugent, Director of Communications for the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services, discusses three significant programs aimed at enriching the lives of seniors: the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), the Foster Grandparents Program (FGP), and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). Guests Cindy Rollins-Williams, Director of SCSEP, and Joy Johnson, Director of FGP and RSVP, provide an in-depth look into each program, their goals, criteria for participation, and the benefits they offer to the community and participants.
*Key Points:*
1. *Introduction to Guests:*
- Cindy Rollins-Williams, Director of SCSEP.
- Joy Johnson, Director of FGP and RSVP.
2. *Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP):*
- *Purpose:* To assist seniors aged 55 and older in re-entering the workforce.
- *Goals:* Help seniors find jobs, gain work experience, and meet Social Security requirements.
- *Criteria:* Must be 55+ years old, low income (e.g., $18,000 max for singles), and willing to participate in job search and training programs.
- *Benefits:* Provides stipends for training and work, offers on-the-job experience, and promotes transitions to unsubsidized employment.
3. *Foster Grandparents Program (FGP):*
- *Purpose:* Volunteers act as grandparents to children in schools, daycares, and Head Start programs.
- *Criteria:* Must pass extensive background checks and meet income thresholds.
- *Benefits:* Seniors help socialize children, assist with homework, and provide one-on-one care, particularly to special needs children.
4. *Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP):*
- *Purpose:* Seniors volunteer in various community settings like hospitals, schools, and emergency management.
- *Criteria:* No income requirements, participants are reimbursed for transportation and meals.
- *Benefits:* Offers meaningful activities for seniors, enhances community services, and provides companionship to hospital patients.
5. *Program Impact on the Community:*
- Seniors stay active, healthy, and engaged.
- Provides valuable skills and services to community organizations.
- Helps combat loneliness and mental health issues among seniors.
6. *How to Get Involved:*
- Visit the VI Department of Human Services website to download application forms.
- Visit DHS offices in St. Thomas (hospital ground) and St. Croix (Mars Hill) for more information and applications.
7. *Closing Remarks:*
- Both guests emphasize the value seniors bring to the community.
- Encouragement for seniors to participate and give back through these programs.
- A call to hire seniors and recognize their experience and contributions.
*Quotes:*
- Cindy Rollins-Williams: "Age is an asset, experience is a benefit, hire a senior today, or become a SCSEP participant today."
- Joy Johnson: "Seniors are worth every minute that they can give back to the community, and they're appreciated and loved."
*Contact Information:*
- *Website:* [VI Department of Human Services](dhs.gov.vi) (for downloading applications and more information).
- *Offices:*
- St. Thomas (hospital ground)
- St. Croix (Mars Hill)
*Outro:*
Ryan Nugent thanks the guests and the audience, encouraging viewers to share the information with seniors who might benefit from these programs.
*Keywords:* Seniors, Employment, Volunteer Programs, Community Service, VI Department of Human Services, SCSEP, Foster Grandparents, RSVP, Senior Programs.
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*Remember to share this episode with seniors in your life who might be interested in these wonderful opportunities!*