On National Service Recognition Day, April 2^nd, 2019 Mason City Mayor Bill Schickel joined more than 5,200 local leaders across the country in a nationwide effort to recognize the positive impact of national service, to thank those who serve, and to encourage more citizens to give back to their communities.

In honor of National Service Recognition Day, Mayor Schickel visited Roosevelt Elementary School to show his appreciation for the impact RSVP Reading Buddy Volunteers are having on students.  He shadowed a Reading Buddy volunteer, Joann Johnson, and participated in their reading activities. He also read books to Mrs. Holly Bruesewitz’s first grade students and answered their questions about his duties as Mayor of Mason City.

The Reading Buddy program is just one of many RSVP volunteer programs making an impact throughout North Iowa. Johnson has been a Reading Buddy at Roosevelt for four years. “I love seeing the progress the students make throughout the year, and their smiles when you see them outside of your normal time together,” says Johnson.

“It’s great to see community members giving of their time to make a difference in the lives of these students,” says Mayor Schickel. “I am grateful for the dedication of RSVP volunteers as they strive to help meet the needs of North Central Iowa.”

RSVP, or Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, is part of the national network of programs called Senior Corps with the Corporation for National & Community Service. Locally, RSVP of North Central Iowa is sponsored by North Iowa Area Community College and serves

Cerro Gordo, Franklin, Hancock, Mitchell, Winnebago, and Worth counties.  RSVP recruits adults 55 and older to use their skills, talents, and life experience to help meet community needs through volunteer service.

For information on RSVP of North Central Iowa, visit www.niacc.edu/rsvp or contact 1-888-466-4222 ext. 4256, (641) 422-4256 or rsvp@niacc.edu.

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