Celebrating National Volunteer Week

Today we celebrate the beginning of National Volunteer Week April 18 -24, 2021.  

President Richard M. Nixon established National Volunteer Week in 1974 by Presidential proclamation.  At the time, he observed that “it has been estimated that one out of every five Americans is contributing time and talent in some kind of voluntary service.  These efforts most frequently touch the lives of the poor, the young, the aged and the sick, but in the process the lives of all men and women are made richer”. 

In setting forth National Volunteer week as April 18 - 24 this year, President Biden reflected on the importance of volunteerism in our current time.  His proclamation begins: 

“We are living in a moment that calls for hope and light and love.  Hope for our futures, light to see our way forward, and love for one another.  Volunteers provide all three.  Service - the act of looking out for one another - is part of who we are as a Nation.  Our commitment to service reflects our understanding that we can best meet our challenges when we join together.  This week, we recognize the enduring contribution of our Nation's volunteers and encourage more Americans to join their ranks.”  

This week we celebrate and heartily thank our team of  Volunteers.  On average, our team of Volunteers give over 1000 hours of their time every month.  Their dedication, time, and energy makes everything possible at Friendship House.  Our team is composed of individuals each with a unique skill and reason to contribute.   People donate their time because they believe in supporting our community - whether it be by providing food and healthy meals, making clothing and household goods affordable or by bringing about  special events to engage  the community.  If you were to have a conversation with some of our volunteers, you would  hear a common theme.   Each will say that Friendship House is here for the community; if someone has a need, there is no better place to turn.  

Over the course of National Volunteer Week, we will highlight our volunteers, the work they do and some little known facts about our Friendship House Volunteers on our social media.  We couldn’t be prouder of them and the incredible work they do.  We hope you will join us in congratulating them this week on their service to the Middlesex community and beyond.

With appreciation and gratitude to our Friendship House Volunteers!