National Volunteer Week, 2008

Proclamation 8244 of April 22, 2008

National Volunteer Week, 2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Through countless acts of kindness, volunteers across
America are changing our Nation for the better. During
National Volunteer Week, we recognize those who take
the time to help their fellow citizens realize the full
potential of America.

Through volunteer work, Americans can demonstrate the
kindness and generosity that make our Nation great.
Mentoring a child, teaching someone to read, visiting
the elderly, feeding the hungry, and finding shelter
for the homeless are all examples of how Americans can
and do aid those in need. Americans are volunteering in
record numbers. Each year, millions of Americans
volunteer, and more of our fellow citizens are
discovering that the pursuit of happiness leads to the
path of service. The cumulative effort of the love and
compassion from our Nation's volunteers will help
secure a more hopeful future for all our citizens.

My Administration remains committed to building a
culture of service, citizenship, and responsibility.
The USA Freedom Corps strengthens civic engagement and
volunteer service in America and helps people connect
with volunteer opportunities. By visiting the USA
Freedom Corps website at volunteer.gov, individuals can
find information about ways they can help in their
local areas and across the country.

The strength of America comes from its compassionate
and loving citizens. National Volunteer Week is an
opportunity to show appreciation for our Nation's
volunteers. The time and energy they dedicate to
helping those in need reflect the true spirit of
America.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim April 27 through May 3,
2008, as National Volunteer Week. I call upon all
Americans to recognize and celebrate the important work
that volunteers do every day throughout our country. I
also encourage citizens to explore ways to help their
neighbors in need and serve a cause greater than self.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-second day of April, in the year of our Lord two
thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.