For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
April 17, 2004
National Volunteer Week, 2004
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
The strength of America lies in the hearts and souls of our
citizens. Across our country, citizens are donating their time and
talents to improving lives and strengthening communities. During
National Volunteer Week, we recognize and celebrate those who serve a
cause greater than self.
This year's theme, "Volunteers Inspire by Example," highlights the
role of volunteers in encouraging others to serve. Last year, more
than 63 million Americans gave their time to helping in their
communities, an increase of 4 million from the prior year. Through the
dedicated efforts of America's volunteers, we are building a culture of
service, responsibility, and compassion, particularly among our young
people.
Volunteers can make a difference in many ways -- by mentoring a
child, caring for the ailing and elderly, building a playground, or
caring for the environment. I created the USA Freedom Corps to help
Americans find opportunities to volunteer. As I travel around our
country, I am honored to meet citizens of all ages who volunteer
through programs such as the Citizen Corps, AmeriCorps, Senior Corps,
and the Peace Corps, as well as many other organizations. Their acts
of kindness have a profound effect on people's lives and on the future
of our country. To recognize those who have demonstrated a sustained
commitment to volunteer service, my Council on Service and Civic
Participation presents individuals, families, and groups with the
President's Volunteer Service Award. This award is a tribute to those
whose outstanding efforts are helping make our country a better place.
America's volunteers set a fine example for our Nation, and I
encourage all Americans to look for a challenge in their communities
and step forward to lend a hand.
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 18 through
April 24, 2004, as National Volunteer Week. I call on all Americans to
recognize and celebrate the important work that volunteers do every day
across our country. I also encourage those who have not yet answered
the call to explore ways to get involved.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day
of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand four, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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