The Word of the Day: VOLUNTEER

by Jackie Piper

Did you know that we are a nation of givers?  Americans are the most charitable people in the world.

Now that statement should give you your smile of the day. We give not only our money to worthy causes, we give our time.  Here are some hard facts about volunteering in America that just made me bust my buttons with pride to be an American.

By the numbers:

26.5%   The percentage of Americans who volunteer

7.9 billion    The number of hours of service given annually

64.5 million   The number of people who volunteer annually

When you compare Americans with Europe, we shine even brighter.  We are 32% more likely to volunteer than Germans and 21% more likely that the Swiss. 

Not surprisingly, the top ten states for volunteering include six from America's heartland.  And yes, Wisconsin is one of them!  I told you that you'd feel proud!!

Next week, those of us who are participating in the Door County Challenge Walk MS will get to benefit from a very special group of volunteers. If you have been a walker in the past, you know what I mean. If you are a new Challenge Walker, get ready to be pampered, spoiled, supported, fed, treated, and cheered by the most amazing group of people ever. They deserve our most heartfelt thanks for all they do to support the cause of ending MS forever!!