The Conversation: Step up

On Sunday, November 30, the Sacramento Bee dedicated much of the Forum section to service and volunteering. The centerpiece of the feature was an article authored by Sue Carter, the Executive Director of Volunteer San Diego.

The Conversation: Step up
Hosted by Daniel Weintraub
Published Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008

Communities across California and the United States face an uncertain future. The economic downturn is leaving many people suffering and looking to government and community organizations for support. Funding for these services cannot keep up with increased demand. In fact, many people and organizations expect to give less next year.

At the same time, we are experiencing a renewal of civic spirit and an increase in interest and participation in volunteering.

Many wonder what would be possible if we transformed public good will into solutions for our neighbors and the organizations that serve them. Increased donations of volunteer time and talent are critical additions to our current philanthropic gifts of money and goods, but it will require a major shift in the way many people think about service. Fortunately, that's starting to occur. The entire notion of volunteering is undergoing a radical transformation; what has long been seen as nice has increasingly become necessary.

To read the entire article, click here.