RSVP hires new Home Companion Program development coordinator

Susan Haas, deputy chief of staff for former Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt, has been named Home Companion Program development coordinator and Lifeline program manager for the Nevada Rural Counties Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, according to Janice Ayres, executive director of the organization.

"Susan brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our agency," Ayres said. "We are very fortunate to have obtained her services for this most important function of RSVP in rural Nevada."

RSVP was established in 1973. However, its flagship programs are the Home Companion and Lifeline programs, which are designed to maximize the time seniors can remain independent in their own homes, rather than be prematurely institutionalized.

RSVP also provides a pro bono law program to assist seniors with legal issues, a resistance-exercise training program, transportation program and respite-care services for caregivers who need a break.

RSVP also provides more than 600 volunteers to more than 214 other nonprofit and state and local government programs across rural Nevada so that they may maintain their own service levels to the needy.

"I am very excited about joining RSVP," Haas said. "I have admired the program for many years and what they have accomplished for the seniors of Nevada, and I look forward to a long and successful relationship."

For information on RSVP, visit www.nevadaruralrsvp.org or call Haas at 687-4680, ext. 7, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.