Among the many other achievements of his administration (and there were many), President R. Milhous Nixon signed an executive order in 1974 creating National Volunteer Week - a weeklong celebration of volunteerism in America (which will be April 15-21 of 2007).

33 years later, Volunteerism in America is stronger than ever! This may or may not be related to the establishment of National Volunteer Week (we'll go with "it probably helped"), but the record number of volunteers in America means we have a record number of people to thank. According to a study by the Corporation for National & Community Service, 65.4 million Americans (28.8% of the population) volunteered in 2005. Even more exciting (for us) are the study's state rankings - we are 3rd in the nation with 40.7% of Minnesotans engaging in community service!

Since 4 out of 10 Minnesotans volunteer in one way or another, it would be impossible for Hands On Twin Cities to bake a delicious cupcake for each one of them (unless someone wants to volunteer 3,000 pounds of cupcake mix). But we will be sure to thank the many volunteers that grace us with their presence, just as we encourage you to recognize and thank the volunteers in your life. If you have friends or family who volunteer, tell 'em what a great job they're doing! Volunteer ushers at a concert or volunteer guides at the zoo? Say thanks! If you work for an organization that relys on the efforts of volunteers, thank them even more than you already do (our suggestions: cards, cupcakes).

And if you are a volunteer yourself, fish for compliments! Also, let other volunteers know how much you appreciate working with them to make your community a better place.

For more information on National Volunteer Week, check out the Points of Light Foundation website.

Milhous smiles upon you, volunteers