Volunteerism in America as it

Volunteerism in America as it Relates to Heifer International

The rise of volunteerism in America has been studied by many charitable, religious, civic and philanthropic organizations, all of which point to a significant increase in the level of volunteerism nationally throughout the last 30 years. One of the most quoted and recognized research reports is published by the Corporation for National & Community Service (et.al) which states that the growth in volunteering has been driven primarily by three age groups. These include older teenagers between 16 and 19, mid-life adults between 45 and 64, and older adults 65 years of age and older. These three age groups' enthusiasm for volunteering more than offset the reduction in volunteerism in other demographic groups. The rise in volunteerism is considered a rejuvenation of the strong service ethic that has pervaded the American culture for the last two centuries. Hastening this focus on community service, volunteerism and philanthropy has been a re-centering by many teenagers, mid-life adults (sometimes called baby boomers) and the elderly on their core values. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 shocked the nation and sent many people back to their core, fundamental values as many people re-evaluated their lives and chose to define their life's work as serving others. In addition, the n natural disasters of Hurricane Katrina the tsunami victims of India, Thailand and bordering nations of the Indian Oceans have brought out a level of philanthropy and service unseen since the last century in Americans. All these tragedies are so unfortunate and full of so much suffering that they cause many to stop and think about what in their lives is most important. As a result, many see a life of service as how they want their legacies to be written. The many statistics captured by the Corporation for National and Community Service as cited in their document referenced below provide ample proof that volunteerism is alive and growing, and that Americans see their role as enablers of a better life for those affected around the world.