|
(Lincoln, NE) Gov. Dave Heineman and First Lady Sally Ganem called for more Nebraskans to consider opportunities to have an impact in their communities by becoming volunteers this holiday season.
“In a year that’s seen much devastation as a result of hurricanes in the Gulf Coast, we know how important the help and assistance provided by volunteers can be,” Gov. Heineman said. “We’ve also seen the dramatic and inspiring spirit of Nebraskans responding to the call for volunteers as our state prepared to lend a hand in the relief effort, and we should all remember that there are families and individuals who need our help here at home.”
The First Lady serves as the honorary chair of the Nebraska Volunteer Service Commission (NVSC), which provides those interested in volunteering with resources to get involved.
First Lady Sally Ganem said, “I want to stress that the need for volunteers is year-round. Volunteers are needed during the summer months just as much as during the holidays. I encourage all those with some time to spare or donations to offer to give back to their communities. The knowledge that your efforts have helped another Nebraskan find comfort or provided assistance to someone in need is very rewarding.”
The Governor and First Lady will be serving Norbest turkeys to temporary residents of the People’s City Mission in Lincoln on Thanksgiving Day. The Nebraska Turkey Growers Cooperative in Gibbon donated ten turkeys to the Governor during his visit earlier this month as part of an Ag Adventure sponsored by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.
Statistics compiled by the NVSC indicate that more than 40 percent of Nebraskans volunteer on an annual basis. Rates of volunteerism are even higher among older teens.
Debra Hartmann, executive director of the NVSC, said, “There are plenty of needs and opportunities for volunteers during the holiday season and throughout the year. We have resources on hand to help connect Nebraskans with those opportunities.”
More information about volunteer opportunities throughout the state is available online at http://www.nvsc.ne.gov or by calling 402-471-6228. Local volunteer organizations, churches, schools, and relief agencies are also sources for additional information.
|
