Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, alongside Department of Senior Affairs personnel and community leaders, paid tribute to approximately 350 volunteers on Aug. 4 at the 2023 AmeriCorps Seniors Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Appreciation Breakfast, sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico. This annual event serves to honor the contributions of senior volunteers who offer their time and expertise at various locations across the city of Albuquerque, according to a press release.

"By lending their talents to support the causes they believe in, these volunteers are helping fulfill the promise of Albuquerque, making our city the best place for families," Keller said. “Whether that’s by leading a class, preparing meals, organizing a fundraiser or anything in between – their hard work and dedication exemplify the ‘power of us’ in action.”

This year's award categories included the RSVP Volunteer Station of the Year Award, recognizing exemplary service locations; the RSVP Rookie of the Year Award, honoring volunteers who joined within the past year; and the RSVP Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating those who have dedicated eight or more years to volunteering, according to the press release.

Among the awardees, Jean Spalt received the 2023 RSVP Lifetime Achievement Award for her 17-year service at the Visit Albuquerque Old Town Visitor Center. Frank Marquez was presented with the RSVP Rookie of the Year Award for his contributions to the Highland Senior Center Kitchen since last August. Additionally, the Volunteer Station of the Year accolade was bestowed upon Bear Canyon Senior Center, lauded for its 4,772 hours of service, according to the press release.

“The RSVP Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast is our way of saying thank you to our senior volunteers who are a constant source of inspiration to all of us,” said Anna Sanchez, director of senior affairs, according to the press release. “We’re lucky as a community to have so many older adults who generously give not only of their time, but more importantly, their wisdom.”