Gov. Inslee proclaims April 21-27 Volunteer Appreciation Week in Washington

OLYMPIA--Gov. Jay Inslee has proclaimed April 21-27 Volunteer Appreciation Week in Washington. 

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

National volunteer week was established in 1974, according to Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service. It falls within Global Volunteer Month, which is used to recognize and celebrate volunteers and people who support their communities. 

Serve Washington will also be announcing the winners of its 2024 Washigton State Volutneer Service Awards during this week.

Related: Points of Light: 4 ways to recognize volunteers and keep them engaged

 

Read the proclamation text:

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, by working with nonprofits and community organizations, the private sector, and Washingtonians, government can make our state stronger, more prosperous, and ready for the future; and

WHEREAS, according to the United States Census Bureau and AmeriCorps’ most recent Volunteering and Civic Life in America report, 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 fortunate to have individuals of all ages who selflessly dedicate their time and energy to performing acts of goodwill and improving the quality of life for others; and

WHEREAS, by helping others, volunteers also help themselves by learning new skills, expanding their professional networks, connecting with neighbors and experiencing satisfaction from serving a larger cause; and

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

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

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

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Jay Inslee, Governor of the state of Washington, do hereby proclaim April 21-27, 2024, 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.

Download a PDF of the proclamation