The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Southern Iowa was awarded more than $15,000 in a second round of funding from the Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service (ICVS). RSVP of Southern Iowa concentrates activities in early childhood literacy and disaster response in Decatur and Ringgold counties, and is affiliated with Graceland University’s Youth Launch Commission programs under the leadership of Julie Neas.
“Initially, we have concentrated our efforts on enrolling sites, called stations, for volunteer activity,” said Jesse Bolinger, RSVP Director. The first stations selected include Funshine Learning Center, Lamoni; Family Resource Center, Mount Ayr; Decatur County Emergency Management; Ringgold County Emergency Management; and Graceland University.
“We are now centering our activities on actively recruiting volunteers for those sites,” said Greg Sutherland, Graceland University’s Director of Affiliate Relations, responsible for program development with Graceland’s various partners. “RSVP of Southern Iowa provides opportunities for retired seniors, 55 and older, to volunteer with community organizations as little as one hour a month or as much as they like. Volunteers of all skill levels and interests are welcome,” he added.
“We are working diligently to increase National Service and volunteer opportunities in Iowa as an essential part of meeting many of the social challenges facing our communities,” said ICVS Executive Director, Adam Lounsbury. “The National Service members and community volunteers supported by this funding will accomplish amazing things to strengthen Iowa communities.”
For more information about RSVP programs or to enroll as an RSVP volunteer, visit the website at www.graceland.edu/rsvp or call 641-784-5379.
Administration and Staff, Athletics, Press Release
April 14, 2026
A transformative era for Graceland University men’s basketball has reached its natural turning point. After engineering one of the most impactful rebuilds in program history, head coach Todd Lorensen has accepted the head coaching position at Rockhurst University. In response, Athletic Director Brady McKillip has elevated Associate Head Coach Matt Dickman to lead the Yellowjackets forward.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
April 10, 2026
Graceland University and the Community of Christ announce the retirement of Campus Minister Mike Hoffman, and the appointment of Doug Roberts as the university’s next Campus Minister, effective June 2026.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
March 13, 2026
Graceland University is saddened to share the passing of Trustee Dr. Julia “Julie” Snethen, a respected nurse scientist, educator, and member of the university’s Board of Trustees whose life and career were dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children and families.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
March 11, 2026
Graceland University has announced the promotion of longtime team member Steve Edwards to Executive Director of Marketing, recognizing more than three decades of service and leadership that have helped shape the university’s communications and brand.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
September 23, 2025
Graceland University proudly welcomes Tom Hiles and Noel E....
Administration and Staff, Faculty, Students
August 25, 2025
Setting out on their very own Graceland journey of...
