Gov. Inslee Proclaims April 17-23 Volunteer Appreciation Week in Washington

OLYMPIA--Gov. Jay Inslee has proclaimed April 17-23 Volunteer Appreciation Week in ther state of Washington.

It coincides with National Volunteer Week, which is observed as a collective opportunity to recognize the impct of volunteer service and the power of volunteers to tackle society's greatest challenges. Read the national proclamation.

As part of National Volunteer Week celebrations, Serve Washington is sharing selcted stories from its Volunteer Story Project. The volunteer story project, now in its second year, highlights stories of how Washingtonians supported and gave back to their communities during the previous year. Stories will be shared throughout the week on Serve Washington's Get Connected blog as well as on its Facebook and Twtitter pages. 

Serve Washington is also teaming up with the Seattle Mariners for its annual Salute to Volunteers Night April 23, in which the Mariners will be celebrarting volunteers from all over the state and offering discounted tickets to the game that day for volunteers. 

Read the Governor's proclamation below:

The State of Washington Proclamation

WHEREAS, volunteer service is integral in addressing local and national issues, and is an effective strategy to unite communities while meeting critical needs; and

WHEREAS, government cannot do the job alone, but government — working together with nonprofits and community organizations, the private sector, and Washingtonians — can make our state stronger, more prosperous, and ready for the future

WHEREAS, the volunteer hours of Washingtonians demonstrate a strong and enduring commitment to public service and represent an astounding annual investment of approximately $5 billion; and

WHEREAS, Washington is blessed with individuals of all ages who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to performing acts of good will and improving the quality of life for all people; and

WHEREAS, by helping others, volunteers also help themselves by learning new skills, expand their professional networks, connect with neighbors and experience satisfaction from serving a larger cause.

WHEREAS, when more Washingtonians step forward to serve, it renews our sense of community and strengthens our democracy,

WHEREAS, acts of service unite people from different backgrounds and allows us to truly see and hear one another

WHEREAS, it is important to honor those who give their time, talent and resources for the betterment of their communities;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jay Inslee, Governor of the state of Washington, do hereby proclaim April 17-23, 2022, as

Volunteer Appreciation Week

in Washington, and I encourage all people in our state to join me in recognizing and supporting those who volunteer and serve.

Signed this 18th Day of April, 2022

Governor Jay Inslee