Green Mountain RSVP Pilots Financial Literacy Program in Bennington

GMRSVP is excited about a new initiative addressing elder justice with a program to educate older Vermonters about financial exploitation. Three of our wonderful Senior Corps volunteers have done presentations in the community and it is impressive how they all have taken ownership of this program. Using tools from the Federal Trade Commission’s “Pass it on” program, our volunteers give 30 minute “Fraud Squad” presentations. Our intent is to reinforce what folks already know, start a conversation about current scams, then ask participants to “pass it on.” Increasing numbers of older Americans are being targeted and financial exploited every year. The financial loss is in the billions and many people experience financial ruin. For many, it results in a loss of independence and reduced quality of life.

We hope to roll this out in our other service areas within Windham and Windsor counties. We will be looking for more volunteers to train to become part of our “Fraud Squad!” For more information on this new program or to become a volunteer, contact GMRSVP at (802) 447-1546 or gmrsvp@svcoa.net.