As director of Coos County RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program), I am continually learning about what a great organization this is and what an invaluable service these volunteers give throughout Coos County. In 2007, RSVP had 600 volunteers who gave more than 105,000 hours of service at more than 110 different sites throughout Coos County. These sites included senior centers, visitor centers, museums, food banks, tax aides, libraries, parks, schools and jazz and music festivals.

RSVP is part of the Corporation for National and Community Service. RSVP receives a grant from the corporation, which is sponsored by Southwestern Oregon Community College. This grant pays for about half of the cost for RSVP. The balance of the program cost comes from other grants or fundraisers. So, what we’ve decided to do at RSVP is have a real fun fundraiser.

On Aug. 9, we are having a Mutt Strut. It will be held at SOCC’s parking lot in front of the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute. It is designed so you can bring your favorite furry friend, enter contests and have lots of fun. Contests include the pet/owner look alike, pet tricks (silly), best dressed mutt and just strutting. Timm Slater, Bay Area Chamber of Commerce president, will emcee and the Wild Women of Charleston will lead the Strut. Furry Friends Therapy Dogs and Pacific Cove also will be lending a hand.

We are really looking forward to this fun fundraiser for our great cause, RSVP. Join us and have lots of fun.

For more information, call 888-7332.