Of equal success have been the three other older American volunteer programs which have enjoyed remarkably strong support from their start. Since 1969. the RSVP Program has provided retired men and women of public spirit with volunteer opportunities within their communities. These volunteers serve part time in a great variety of settings. involving services such as youth counseling. tutoring in reading and writing. crime prevention. and refugee assistance. Included also among the older American volunteer programs are the Foster Grandparents and Senior Companion programs. Both of these programs provide to older Americans who possess the public spirit. but not the financial means. a modest stipend to enable them to volunteer in parttime positions assisting others. lowincome individuals.