We appreciate you

  • Published
  • By Tiffany Englehart
  • 9th Force Support Squadron
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., --  "Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the Earth who reflect this nation's compassion, unselfish caring, patience, and just plain loving one another." - Erma Brombeck

This year, National Volunteer Week will be held April 15-21. This week encourages volunteering and gives us an opportunity to honor our current volunteers. President Richard Nixon established this week by executive order in 1974. He wished to create a culture of service in America. Millions of Americans volunteer during National Volunteer Week, demonstrating the positive community impact individuals, families, businesses and organizations can create year-round.

Chances are you have someone who volunteers for you. Volunteers are the backbone of many organizations. They work without expecting anything in return. Although obtaining recognition is not the goal of those who volunteer, it is extremely important to celebrate and reward those who have gone above and beyond. Be sure to recognize your volunteers publicly and privately not only this week, but year-round. Offer a genuine "Thank-You". Honor your volunteers by sending them a hand-written note as well as sending one to their supervisor. Volunteers have become an integral part of teams, on and off base.

Where will you make a difference during National Volunteer Week? Will you read a book to a Kindergarten class, coach a baseball team, or help a neighbor move their piano? Maybe you would enjoy helping out at your local animal shelter, driving for Beale Airmen Against Drunk Driving, or even cleaning up the road with your squadron's Adopt-A-Highway program. There are so many choices out there. If you would like some ideas, you can contact the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 634-2863.

Every year, Air Force installations honor up to four extraordinary volunteers with the Air Force Volunteer Excellence Award. This year at Beale, the VEA recipients will be acknowledged at the Wing All Call.

On behalf of all volunteer organizations at Beale and the surrounding communities, we would like to offer our genuine appreciation to all who give their time and dedication to helping others. Thank you.