Nebraskans serving others

I encourage all Nebraskans to get involved in their communities as a volunteer during ServeNebraska Week of Service, April 22-28. Many Nebraskans generously give of their time through volunteerism every day, and this special week is set aside to focus on the ability of all Nebraskans to serve others. First Lady Sally and I look forward to volunteering that week alongside many others in our state.

The ServeNebraska Week of Service works to inspire Nebraskans to seek out creative ways to serve their communities. This statewide effort encourages families, students, congregations, employees, and individuals of all ages and backgrounds to volunteer their time in giving back to their communities.

I’d like to speak directly to one misconception about being a volunteer - you don’t have to be a super hero to volunteer. It is the everyday Nebraskans that can make the biggest impact. You can make a difference in the lives of your neighbors and in your communities on any given day.

Volunteerism is one thing that sets Nebraska apart because Nebraskans are always quick to step up and help others. Volunteerism spans all ages. Anyone can volunteer - individuals, groups, schools, faith-based organizations, families, civic groups, nonprofits, government entities, and businesses. It’s about working together to meet our community’s needs and accomplish our goals.

According to the recent Volunteering in America Report, Nebraska ranks in the top 10 in volunteerism among the 50 states and Washington, D.C. This week-long effort provides

Nebraskans with the flexibility to volunteer at any time or place with a goal to have participation in all 93 counties.

Volunteer service has a tremendous impact on our state. In 2011, Nebraskans donated 49 million hours of their time to nonprofit organizations. This service was estimated to be worth $1.2 billion dollars.

The beneficiaries of the Week of Service are the organizations where our state’s volunteers direct their efforts. The goal for the Week of Service is to have volunteers participate in all 93 counties. ServeNebraska encourages participants to form lasting relationships with the organizations for which they volunteer during the Week of Service. Each county has an ambassador who can suggest opportunities for volunteering.

Once someone volunteers, they are more likely to do it again. We want to create a culture that makes volunteerism a life-long activity. By volunteering, an individual gives of their time and talents to benefit someone else’s life.

For more information on the ServeNebraska Week of Service or to register individual or group volunteer activity, visit their website at http://www.serve.nebraska.gov.

Gov. Heineman’s staff can be contacted at 308-632-1370.