(from news release)
When Dan and Jane Fark of St. Joseph look back on their lives, one thing is clear. They’ve always believed in supporting and strengthening their community and making it better.
As a former teacher and an active parent, Jane spent years involved in schools.
“Strong schools build strong communities,” she said. “It’s where our future begins.”
For Dan, whose parents modeled giving back from an early age, volunteering was a way of life.
Today, thanks to the AmeriCorps Seniors Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), the Farks are continuing their lifelong commitment to service. For both of them, RSVP didn’t change their path, it expanded it.
The couple volunteers regularly at Kennedy Elementary School in St. Joseph where they are seen greeting students with fist bumps and warm smiles.
“Kids light up when they see you,” Dan said. “They want to feel special, to share a book, to be heard.”
Through RSVP, the Farks are able to share the joy of reading, to encourage young learners and to offer a steady presence that children come to count on.
They enjoy supporting areas they are passionate about, such as health and the arts, through volunteering. Examples of that support include helping at the Earth Day Half Marathon, holiday events at Catholic Charities, volunteering at Rox baseball games and ushering at the Paramount Theater in St. Cloud and at The Ledge Amphitheater in Waite Park.
“It just feels good,” Jane said. “You help where you are needed and the whole community benefits.”
One of the things they both appreciate most about RSVP is its flexibility. Whether it’s a once-a-week commitment at school or a one-time event, RSVP makes it easy to jump in without feeling overwhelmed. If you need to be gone or want to try something new, you can.
“There are no excuses not to do something,” said Jane, smiling. “RSVP has made volunteering simple. The staff is great. There are clear instructions, great communication and so many options. You just sign up and go!”
“Volunteering helps us stay active and involved,” Dan said. “Both physically and mentally.”
Nodding, Jane agreed, adding, “Being involved helps keep you going and helps build a stronger community.”
Jane added this, laughing: “It also helps you get through the Minnesota winters.”
For the Farks, RSVP isn’t a new chapter, it’s a continuation of how they’ve always lived – giving back, staying engaged and making the world around them better.
They’re quick to point out RSVP doesn’t just offer volunteer opportunities. It also creates a sense of belonging, a way to be connected to the places and people that are meaningful to you. It’s about building relationships, supporting causes and leaving every place just a little bit better than they found it.
When asked what they’d say to others thinking about joining RSVP, they don’t hesitate to answer: A big YES! They said it’s worth your time because you’ll stay active and feel good. You’ll make a difference while becoming more connected to your community and you’ll be part of something that matters.
AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP engages people ages 55-plus in volunteer service throughout Stearns, Benton, Sherburne and Wright counties. There are currently 1,200 active RSVP volunteers serving at 165 human-service agencies. To learn more about RSVP, visit RSVPCentralMN.org and join today.
Dan and Jane Fark
