Honoring Those Who Serve

By: Jessica Gonyou, Volunteer Center Assistant

This time of year, I think a lot about service and patriotism.  I think of heroes and sacrifice, and of acts done not for self, but for the greater good.

One of my greatest heroes, my dad, is synonymous with such thoughts for me.  As a Vietnam veteran, he stands among the brave men and women who have fought for our independence and the freedoms we enjoy.  Theirs' is an ultimate level of service for others.

Our country was built and freedom was won through the vision, dedication and sacrifice of volunteers, and volunteers continue to move it forward today. Most don’t ever leave the country, and some don’t even leave their home to serve.  Volunteer acts, big and small, public and private, happen each day, each one of them strengthening the fabric of what makes our nation great.

And in my mind, the volunteers who perform those acts are true American heroes.

So, to my dad and to each who have volunteered, sacrificed, or given of yourselves for our country and our communities, I say sincerely, thank you.   Your service has not gone unnoticed.  It has been seen and it inspires.  

I hope each of you will join the Volunteer Center in celebrating those who serve and learn more about how you can get involved.  Each of us has the power to impact our community.

Learn more:

• In the June/July eNews, we’re celebrating service and those who serve (sign up for our eNews)
• Volunteering is on the rise.  The number of volunteers increased almost 1.6 million in 2009, the largest single-year increase since 2003!
• One year later: catch up with United We Serve and the historic Edward M Kennedy Serve America Act

Get involved:

• Share a picture of you volunteering and enter to win an Apple iPad on the United Way Facebook page
• Find a service opportunity that inspires you on Volunteer Solutions
• Sign up to be a United Way Investment Council Volunteer