Scott Trevithick has joined the University of Nevada, Reno Division of Health Sciences as the project director for the Sanford Center for Aging's Volunteer Programs. Trevithick, whose program development experience spans more than 20 years, will oversee the center's volunteer programs, which include the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Washoe County, and Senior Outreach Services (SOS). His leadership with the center's volunteer programs will also benefit students seeking service-learning opportunities to enhance their academic experience.

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Washoe County (RSVP) is part of a national organization that encourages people 55 years and older to share their skills, talents and experiences with community nonprofit and public agencies. The Sanford Center for Aging at the University of Nevada, Reno is focused on education, research and outreach to "add life to years" and sponsors RSVP and SOS as a part of its mission.

Most recently, Trevithick was the executive director of Special Advocates for Elders (SAFE), a program that recruited and trained volunteers to be advocates for elders facing guardianship. Within his first year with SAFE, he led the organization to double its volunteer base and rewrite its training curricula.

"Scott's understanding of senior issues, coupled with his diverse experiences working with volunteers, governing boards and the Nevada Aging Services Network, will allow him to hit the ground running," Denise Montcalm, director of the School of Social Work and associate professor at the University, said. "We are looking forward to his energy, insights, leadership and passion in taking our volunteer programs to the next level."

Trevithick earned his bachelor's degree in business from the University of California, Riverside and his master's degree in divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary. He is currently an ordained pastor in the Presbyterian Church. Trevithick also earned his certification in nonprofit management from the University of Nevada, Reno's Extended Studies Program.

"I look forward to working with the Sanford Center and University staff, RSVP volunteers, RSVP's advisory council members and our community partners to make a difference throughout Washoe County through our collective efforts," Trevithick said. "Particularly during times of economic hardship, community agencies depend on volunteers to stretch limited resources and help vulnerable seniors and others in need."

More information about RSVP and other programs of the Sanford Center for Aging.