Opportunities Are Available for ACTION To Enhance Older American Voluntarism

Since its creation in 1971, ACTION has expanded elderly participation in its programs from about 4,000 volunteers to almost 270,000. Pursuant to a congressional request, a review was performed of ACTION's administration of its Older American Volunteer Program projects. The review took place at ACTION headquarters; ACTION regional offices in California, New York, and Texas; and five ACTION State offices in those States. Researchers also visited nine action projects: a Foster Grandparent, Senior Companion, and Retired Senior Volunteer project in each of the three States. To assess experiences, satisfaction, and coordination, researchers interviewed 231 current volunteers, 67 persons on waiting lists to become volunteers, and representatives of 65 organizations that sponsor two or more ACTION projects.