April 2022: Global Volunteer Month

WHEREAS, we honor the millions of individuals who volunteer throughout the year and change the world, one act of kindness at a time; and,

WHEREAS, volunteerism is a critical part of civic engagement; and,

WHEREAS, we recognize the power of people to build more vibrant communities through volunteering the gifts of their time, energy, expertise and conviction; and,

WHEREAS, volunteers tackle society’s greatest challenges and help build stronger, more vibrant communities through their everyday actions; and,

WHEREAS, volunteers come together to create lasting change in the communities where they live and work; and,

WHEREAS, volunteers are role models that not only have a positive impact on the communities and organizations they serve but inspire others to look within themselves to shine their own light; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan residents who choose to help their neighbors by volunteering with faith-based, nonprofit, national service, military service and community organizations support our most vulnerable populations; and,

WHEREAS, Michiganders have lifted up others during the difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic emergencies and disasters; and,

WHEREAS, Global Volunteer Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the impact people have when they use their civic power to support causes they care about; and,

WHEREAS, additional information about volunteerism may be obtained through Points of Light, at pointsoflight.org; and,

WHEREAS, additional information about volunteerism, including opportunities, training and recognition can be obtained through the Michigan Community Service Commission, at Michigan.gov/volunteer;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 2022 as Global Volunteer Month in Michigan, and urge citizens to thank AmeriCorps members and alumni for their service and to find their own ways to give back to their communities.