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Op-ed by Darrell Green
Washington Times
April 18, 2004
Sixty-three million Americans gave their time and talent to volunteer service last year.
Their accomplishments rarely make headlines. We don't read about the teenage girl whose community garden provides produce to food banks in Canton, Ohio; the parents who founded a drug prevention and support group in Orlando, Fla.; or the NFL players who tutor and mentor children in the Anacostia community of our nation's capital. But to the individuals and families whose lives these volunteers touched, their impact is anything but small.
Every day, volunteers make a difference in the lives of countless Americans. They are our tutors, our mentors, our coaches and leaders. They are our voices in the PTA, our stewards of the environment, and our helping hands in times of trouble. America's volunteers are active citizens who take the responsibility of citizenship to heart by getting out into their communities and choosing action over inaction — harnessing the power of one, and the ability to make a difference.
Thirty-one years ago, President Nixon designated National Volunteer Week to honor our volunteers and recognize the many ways that volunteer service strengthens our communities and our nation. This year during National Volunteer Week, April 18-24, individuals, families and groups across the country will receive the President's Volunteer Service Award as presidential recognition for their commitment to volunteer service.
I am proud to chair the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation, which issues the President's Volunteer Service Award on behalf of President George W. Bush to recognize outstanding volunteers and inspire others to join them. As America celebrates these and other volunteers, we should honor them not just by recognizing their accomplishments, but also by following their example.
At a recent conference on volunteer service, one high school freshman from Kansas City said, "Everyone can do something. I would tell students, adults — everyone — that volunteering is the ultimate experience. And it doesn't have to be just one thing, like tutoring or visiting the elderly. Volunteer service can be anything — just choose something that you like, and find a way to share it with others. There's so much you can do, give, and learn."
The strength and success of our nation depends on every one of us to act as informed citizens and take an active role in the communities where we live. Whether it's an hour a day, a few days a month, or more, find an opportunity and make volunteering a part of your life. A stronger America is possible, and everyone can do something to take part. We have seen the power of one. Imagine the potential of millions more.
Darrell Green is a two-time Super Bowl Champion and the chairman of the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. More information on the President's Volunteer Service Award and how to can earn it, as well as volunteer opportunities in your community, are available at www.presidentialserviceawards.govor 1-866-545-5307.
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