I went through the RCIA process myself. It is a normal part of a faith-sharing process at my parish that includes rites for both children and adults and that is run parallel to normal church celebrations. I find that it integrates new arrivals to the faith in a seamless fashion that is extremely moving and fulfilling for the participants.
Are you a part of the RCIA team now? Your parish process sounds much like ours.
People in RCIA are already volunteering in parish projects! (And not just little ones!)